Memorial Garden

For our Academy Animal Care family, whose pets have crossed the Rainbow Bridge, we now have a Memorial Rock Garden on the grounds. If you choose, we will arrange for your pet’s name to be etched on a river rock for you to place in the garden as a tribute to their life and cherished times.

We invite families whose pets have previously passed to add a self-decorated stone to the garden as well. We hope this will be a place of comfort and solace to all in the seasons ahead.

Memorial Garden for pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge

Pet Loss Resources

Navigating the journey of pet loss can be incredibly challenging and emotionally overwhelming. Whether you seek a supportive community, professional guidance, or simply a comforting read, we hope that the resources that follow can serve as a source of solace and help you find healing as you mourn the loss of your beloved companion. Remember, you are not alone in your grief, and there are compassionate individuals and communities ready to lend a listening ear and offer support along the way.

Websites / Chat Rooms / Hotlines: 

Support Groups: 

Podcasts: 

Books for Adults and Children: 

Ways to cope with the loss of your beloved companion:

Losing a beloved pet is a significant loss. For many, pets are family, offering unconditional love.

Deep, debilitating pet grief can be normal. Allow yourself all the time you need to heal.

Perhaps you feel responsible for not getting veterinary care earlier or for preventing an accident. This guilt often masks the helplessness of losing your pet.

Pet loss is often sudden, leaving unspoken words. Write a letter, hold a family ritual, or share cherished memories with photos.

Make a scrapbook, plant a tree, write a poem, contribute to a memorial garden or donate to an animal charity.

You can’t replace your lost companion; emotional investment takes time.

Share your feelings honestly. Understand that others may grieve differently or be unable to fully support you.

Grieving can be draining. Rest well, eat healthily, hydrate, limit caffeine, exercise gently, and relax through massage or meditation. For sleep issues, consider non-addictive herbal remedies.

Journal freely, sculpt with clay, draw or paint, create a collage—giving shape to your emotions.

Take a walk, garden, appreciate the sunset, listen to music, or even watch a funny movie. Laughter can lower cortisol levels and increase the production of dopamine, endorphins,  T-cells and immune proteins. Grab ahold of glimpses of joy and humor when they flicker across your sky.