Losing a loved one is never easy. When that loved one is a dog, cat, bird, or other animal, society tends to minimize the death in what is known as “disenfranchised grief”—where the depth of loss is not commonly validated.
Helping to provide support and comfort for grieving pet owners, the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine offers the Pet Loss Hotline where people world-wide can receive information and counseling over the phone or by email.
Directed by Kathy Ruby, the program includes classes with hands-on experience for veterinary students as they prepare for careers in private veterinary practice.
Pet Loss Hotline:
1-(866) 266-8635 or (509) 335-5704
E-mail plhl@vetmed.wsu.edu
Phone and/or email message can be left for staff 24 hours a day. Phones are normally staffed during the semester Monday-Thursday, 7 PM-9 PM and Saturday 1PM-3 PM Pacific Time.
When school is not in session and during holidays they have abbreviated hours; checking phone and email messages Monday-Thursday and Saturday once daily.
All messages will be returned as soon as possible.