The death of a beloved pet can be devastating, and for some people, the grief can be more intense than human loss.

Often pet loss is disenfranchised, whereby not everyone can understand the depths of grief that surface for our companion friends.

HSTT’s Pet Loss Support Program is designed to help grieving pet parents cope with the anticipated loss or the death of their furry friend. In a supportive, understanding, format, individuals can share and explore their difficult and sad feelings, in the comfort and safety of a private call with a certified grief counselor. It has been shown that grief support can aid in the healing of loss, as pet parents learn coping strategies to manage and tolerate their grief.

The HSTT Pet Loss Support Program is open to all adults 18 years and older. Meetings are conducted via phone and will be facilitated by our local grief counselor, Bonnie Goodman, MA, CT.

Individuals receive one free, 50-minute session free of charge. Appointments are required, as is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Donations to HSTT are welcomed and appreciated.

To reserve a meeting, please email: Erin Ellis, Community Engagement Director, at erin@hstt.org.

The program is intended for pet parents who are coping with the following:

  • The recent loss of a pet
  • Those still mourning their loss beyond 6 months
  • The anticipation of their pet’s death

This program is specifically designed for pet loss support only, and in no way will psychotherapy of any kind be offered. If psychotherapy is indicated, referrals will be given.

Bonnie Goodman’s Background:
Bonnie has over 25 years of counseling experience, and is professionally trained and certified in Pet Loss and Bereavement. She is also nationally Board Certified as a Thanatologist-Grief Counselor/Educator.