Losing a pet can be a difficult time, with their loss leaving a hole that isn’t easily filled. But, a new Facebook community group has been set up to offer bereavement support to Bedfordians grieving the loss of their pet.
Jade Parmenter works in bereavement services for those who have lost human loved ones. She decided to set up Bedford Pet Bereavement Pals after losing her dog Maisy and found there was limited help for those who had lost a pet.
“Maisy was 13 when she died and living alone I felt like I wasn’t able to get the same support through talking about my loss as I might if she had been human.
“Despite actually working in adult bereavement services, I took the loss really hard, so I figured there was a real gap in the market for bereavement services for people who lose pets.”
The group gives people a chance to share memories of their pets, through stories or posting pictures and so far over 70 people are making the most of the opportunity.
Jade also says it doesn’t matter when they lost their pet.
“It could be years ago, or quite recent,” she says, “the aim of the group is to share memories of our pets, to offer support, and to share coping mechanisms for dealing with the grief.”
There are also plans to move some of the conversations off-line too, an idea that group members have responded to well.
“We chat online but also I’d love to arrange meet-ups for coffee. It might help bring together people who are struggling and form real friendships. The community have supported the idea hugely.”
You can join Bedford Pet Bereavement Pals and share your memories on Facebook.
