Grief Counseling

As pet owners ourselves, the staff at VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital understands that facing a pet's serious illness or the loss of a pet can be emotionally devastating. We also know that to care for a sick pet, a family must receive clear information concerning treatment and evaluating options and, sometimes, making difficult decisions. Our hospital's veterinarians and staff are here to help you explore your concerns about treatment choices and managing a sick pet at home. You can count on our staff to assist you in every way that we can during times of crisis.

Upon the loss of a pet, grief is a normal response and also a very individual one. Grieving is a complex process which includes a number of stages including, denial, bargaining, anger, sadness, and resolution. The stages often appear as a complex series of emotions and feelings. In most instances, the grieving process may continue up to a year. It has been shown that when grief can be expressed, the time needed for healing is often less. We are here to offer support and help you through this time. Please visit our Counseling page on this website for our Pet Loss Support Library of publications and for information about our grief counseling sessions.