South Asheville Veterinary Emergency & Specialty
HELPING CHILDREN COPE
It is a very scary and difficult time for children when any member of their family is ill. The mention of cancer can cause children to fear the worst and often they feel they cannot voice their fears and emotions to their parents. This is especially true when parents are upset about the condition of the family pet and unsure of what options to pursue.
Following is a list of books that the Humane Society of the United States recommends. These may be helpful in assisting your children with the difficult time ahead:
🔹 Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant
🔹 Cat Heaven by Cynthia Rylant
🔹 Forever Friends: Resolving Grief after the Loss of a Beloved Animal by Joan Coleman
Following are a list of resources which may be helpful to you:
Grief is a normal part of loss, regardless if the loved one is a person or a pet. There are many ways to work through the grief process. The loss of an animal, like the loss of a family member or friend, may cause physical and emotional changes that can last for weeks or months. Don’t be afraid to contact pet loss support groups, pet loss hotlines or local specialists who are knowledgeable about loss and receptive to helping people who are grieving a beloved pet. Following are a list of resources which may be helpful to you:
🔹 The Tenth Good Thing About Barney, Judith Viorst, 1975
🔹 Grieving the Death of a Pet, Betty J. Carmack, RN, EdD
🔹 Geadon’s Gift: Surviving the Loss of Your Pet: Coloring Book, Cheryl A. Underhill and Kathy Ferdon
🔹 Pet Love, Betty White, William Morrow and Company, 1983
🔹 Saying Good-Bye to the Pet You Love, A Complete Resource to Help You, Dr. Lori Green and Jacqueline Landis
