Pet Tribute Info

What can you expect when you go to a Pet Loss Support Group meeting?

Everyone sits in a circle, all facing each other.  The leader or the group facilitator, usually starts by stating the group’s purpose and laying the “ground rules” –  ie the group begins and ends on time, all information shared by the group stays there, members are free to exchange phone numbers if they choose etc.

Going around the circle, members may choose to share as much or as little as they wish, or may choose to “pass”.  One person speaks at a time, and everyone gets an equal share of time – no one is allowed to monopolize the session.  Suggestions may be offered, but unsolicited advice is not given.  One by one people are invited to introduce themselves and to tell as much or as little about their pet as they wish.   Experiences, thoughts, feelings, are openly expressed, and painful as well as pleasant memories are recalled.  Often members are asked to pass around photographs of their pets.  Some members may choose to read Eulogies they have written to their pet, others choose to share personal tributes they have penned.  Many choose to share their Personalized Pet Memorials they have created to celebrate the life of their pet with others.  Whatever is read, whatever is shared is always held in the strictest confidence by everyone there.  When outside the group, members aren’t free to talk about another member without that member’s permission.  Whatever is shared by the group stays confidential within the group.  Many friendships are made and burdens lifted because they are shared.