The bond between humans and their pets is profound. Pets are not just animals; they are family members and friends that bring unconditional love, joy and companionship into our lives. However, the hardest part of loving them is losing them. The pain that follows when a pet dies can be overwhelming, leaving a void in our hearts. Despite this pain, the love we have for our pets endures, becoming a cherished memory that stays with us forever.
For many, the loss of a pet is akin to losing a close friend or family member. The grief that follows can be as intense and long-lasting as any other form of bereavement. Unfortunately, some struggle to understand the depth of this grief. Comments like “it was just a cat/dog” minimize the pain a pet owner feels and can leave them feeling alone in their grief. Feelings of sadness, guilt, loneliness and anger are all valid after the loss of a pet. Amid this sorrow, the love we shared with our pets becomes a source of comfort, reminding us of the special moments we experienced together.
Recognizing the profound impact of pet loss, La Plata County Humane Society is hosting a special event to support those who are grieving. At 4:30 p.m. Sept. 21, LPCHS will screen the film “Goodboy” at Durango High School. Created by Colorado resident Ashley Mosher, this award-winning film parallels the loss of her dog Kenya with the childhood loss of her father. Through her journey, Ashley learns to embrace rather than fear loss, and her lesson becomes ours. This event is free for middle and high school students, $15 for Fort Lewis College students, and $25 for adults.
The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Mosher, local grief counselor Mindy Meiering, a hospice professional and an animal care professional. The panelists will offer insights into the grieving process and share coping strategies and resources. This discussion aims to provide a space for attendees to reflect on their own experiences with loss and find solace in the shared understanding of grief.
In addition to this event, LPCHS is embarking on a new project to further support pet owners during the difficult time of saying goodbye to their beloved companions. Thanks to the support of two generous donors, LPCHS is about to break ground on a Care Cottage, a serene and sacred space overlooking the Animas River. This cottage will be a dedicated place where owners can spend their final moments with their pets in peace and privacy. The Care Cottage is expected to be completed in 2025 and will serve as a valuable resource for our community, offering a place for reflection, farewell and healing.
The loss of a pet is heartbreaking, but the love we have for them never leaves us. It is through this love that we find the strength to heal and the courage to open our hearts to new companions. The upcoming event and the future Care Cottage are dedicated to honoring this enduring love and providing support to those who need it most.
Colleen Dunning is Development manager at La Plata County Humane Society.
