Those who have shared their life with a pet have been fortunate to experience the joy of a unique and special relationship.

The bond remains even when your pet is no longer with you, which is why thier loss is so heartbreaking. Although the time to say goodbye will inevitably come, we are rarely prepared for the devastating effect this can have on our lives.

The Blue Cross animal charity and the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) offer support to bereaved pet owners by email and telephone, with a Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS). They also produce free literature specifically aimed at helping children who have lost their pet.

For children, we recommend a lovely book called ‘Goodbye Mog’ by Judith Kerr, published by Harper Collins, and an illustrated poem called ‘Weep Not For Me: In Memory of a Beloved Cat’, by Constance Jenkins and published by Souvenir Press.

For adults, we have found that ‘Goodbye Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone who has Ever Lost a Pet’ by Gary Kowalski, published by Stillpoint, is a comforting read.