Paws In Our Hearts
You are not alone here.
Helplines and groups run by organisations who understand pet loss specifically. Most are free. None of them will tell you it was just a pet.
The call is free, but you are connected to a private counsellor whose fees vary — these are discussed before you proceed. Their site also lists free and donation-based options.
Free bereavement support of all kinds, including pet loss. Also runs online forums and support groups.
Not pet-specific, but free and always open if grief becomes overwhelming.
Practical guidance on pet grief plus a list of Australian counselling lines.
Somewhere else in the world? There's no equivalent pet-specific network in much of Europe and elsewhere, but findahelpline.com lists free emotional support lines in over 130 countries, and APLB's online chat rooms are open to anyone. Your own vet is often the best first ask — many keep a list of local grief counsellors.
Hours change, especially at the university lines, which are staffed by students and go quiet over holidays. Every listing above links to its own site so you can check before you call.
Found something out of date, or know a service that should be here? Tell us and we'll update it.