When a human loved one dies our family and faith traditions may prescribe a particular way to respectfully dispose of their body, acknowledge the loss, and celebrate their life. Having such a preordained path can provide at least a small measure of relief at this overwhelmingly stressful moment. It’s different with a beloved animal companion. Will we ask our veterinarian to dispose of their body? Will we have it cremated instead? If so, will it be individual or group cremation? What about the options of burying or freeze-drying? Will we have a funeral or memorial service? If so, what will it look like? Join Nancy Saxton-Lopez and Ken Dolan-Del Vecchio for a conversation about pet loss rituals and memorials. Send the hosts your own stories, questions, and suggestions for future episode topics at [email protected] or [email protected].

The Pet Loss Companion: Healing Advice From Family Therapists Who Lead Pet Loss Groups on Amazon.com.