Pet loss therapist helps pet owners deal with grief

American pet owners have spent more than $5 billion on veterinary bills every year since 1997. Medical options for pets are almost as abundant as they are for humans, and the rate of specialists in the veterinary field has risen significantly over the past 20 years. Many people purchase insurance plans for their pets as well as their families. Obviously, the role pets play in the family unit is at an all-time high, and consequently, so are the feelings of grief upon their deaths.

Nearly everyone has experienced the loss of a pet. Deborah Antinori, a licensed therapist, wrote and recorded the award-winning audio book, Journey Through Pet Loss , after she lost Yoko, her dog of 15 years. The book reaches out to those who have lost their animal companions through death or other circumstances.

Throughout the audio book, Antinori uses her skills as a therapist and pet-loss counselor, and her experiences as a pet owner to address virtually every aspect of pet loss. This double-cassette album and accompanying resource booklet explains:

1. The reasons people may experience such a deep sense of loss
2. Memorial tributes for animals
3. Euthanasia, burial and cremation issues
4. Grief phases and helpful tasks
5. Other forms of pet loss such as lost pets and animals that must be given away

She also recognizes that many pet owners are surprised at how devastating it can be when their companions die and other people don't understand their grief. "When it comes to the death of a pet, there's a tendency for people to minimize someone's loss, because they don't have animals and don't understand the attachment," says Antinori. "Through the book I wanted to offer something to people who are being given insensitive advice such as, 'It was only an animal, you'll get another one.'"

Although written for the general public, Journey Through Pet Loss covers many topics that will interest mental health professionals, veterinarians and veterinary support staff as well.

For more information, see pet training aids.

About The Author:

Colten Rice is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-pets.com. Pamper your pet and get up to date information on pet health, food, accessories, behavior, gifts and toys.