Pet Loss & Bereavement
Grief that's real,
support that honors it
"The love we share with our animals doesn't end when they're gone. It becomes part of us — quiet, steady, always present."Book a Consultation
Pet loss grief is real, complex, and deserving of care — led by a licensed therapist with specialized training in pet loss and the human–animal bond.
About This Service
You don't have to grieve alone
For many people, pets are family. Losing them can bring a depth of grief that feels overwhelming and isolating — especially when others minimize the loss. You may feel caught between holding on to your bond and figuring out how to move forward.
The Gentle Paw offers trauma-informed pet loss counseling through a secure telehealth platform as well as in-person support in New York and Connecticut. Our approach is rooted in compassion, clinical expertise, and a deep respect for the human–animal bond.
There is no timeline for grief. The length of mourning does not reflect the depth of your bond or love — and you deserve support that understands that.
Who This Is For
This might sound like you
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You feel lonely or depressed since losing your pet, and the home feels different without them.
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You're struggling to cope with the finality of the loss and can't seem to find your footing.
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You feel guilt or anxiety about having to euthanize your pet, or about the circumstances surrounding their illness or passing.
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Certain spaces, routines, or areas of your home are a constant and painful reminder of your loss.
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You want to find a way through the grief so you can remember your pet with love — not just pain.
"Working with a pet loss counselor provides a supportive, private space to grieve at your own pace — without minimizing your experience or rushing your healing."
The Gentle Paw
Get StartedWhat Counseling Offers
Pet loss counseling can help you
Process grief without pressure
Move through your loss without anyone telling you it's "just an animal" or that you should be over it by now. Your grief is valid.
Reduce guilt & overwhelm
Work through complicated feelings — especially guilt around end-of-life decisions — with a clinician who understands the complexity of these choices.
Honor your pet's memory
Find meaningful ways to hold space for your pet's life and legacy, so their memory becomes a source of comfort rather than only pain.
Feel truly understood
Work with a professional who is specifically trained in pet loss and bereavement — not a generalist, but someone who gets it.
Getting Started
Your path forward
Reach Out
Book a free consultation or send us a message. We'll answer your questions and help you understand if this is the right fit.
Free Consultation
A brief call to talk through your experience, your needs, and what you're hoping for — no pressure, no commitment.
Begin Sessions
We'll schedule your intake and begin at a pace that feels right for you — virtually or in person in New York or Connecticut.
Heal at Your Pace
Ongoing support tailored to your grief journey — with a clinician who truly understands the bond you're mourning.
Ready When You Are
You don't have to carry
this by yourself
If you're struggling with the loss of a beloved companion, we're here — with compassion, expertise, and space for your grief exactly as it is.