Vet Med Offers Grief Seminars

The Client Counseling and Grief Support Service at the Veterinary Health Complex is sponsoring a grief education seminar series on four consecutive Thursday evenings beginning on June 20.

Each hour-long session will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Conference Room 101 of the College of Veterinary Medicine Research Building. Those interested may register for one particular session or for all four.  Individuals, couples and family members may attend,  but each  person must register individually since space is limited.  Please note that the material is not suitable for young children. Register online.

Dates and Topics

Session 1: June 20 (repeated on Aug. 1)

Preparing for the End of Life: Quality of Life, Quality of Death and Anticipatory Grief

This session is designed to help people explore end-of-life issues for a beloved animal. Multiple topics will be reviewed so attendees can plan what they want for their animal, and their relationship with their animal, as that animal’s life comes to a close.

Session 2: June 27 (repeated on Aug. 8)

Understanding Animal Loss and Grief

It is not uncommon for people to report that the loss of an animal feels different and often more painful than other losses. This session will explore common facets of grief following animal loss and will review helpful tips for coping with grief.

Session 3: July 11 (repeated on Aug. 22)

The Dark Emotions of Grief: Guilt, Regret, and Anger

The “dark emotions” of guilt, regret and anger are often felt after the loss of an animal. This session will explore the messages behind these emotions and methods of working with them productively.

Session 4: July 18 (repeated on Aug. 29)

Maintaining a Connection: The Importance of Ritual for Grief and Healing

A key component of the grieving process is redefining the relationship with the deceased. We also know that finding a way to maintain a connection with those we’ve lost builds resilience. This session will explore how grievers can reorient to a world changed by loss and find comfort in a continued relationship with the animal who has died.