The Helpful Heeler will be closed Wednesday Nov. 27 – Monday Dec. 2, 2024.  We will respond to communications when we re-open on Tuesday Dec. 3, 2024.  Please see the following link for local ER hospitals: https://thehelpfulheeler.com/chester-county-pa-veterinary-resources/#emergency

Grief Resources

We’re truly sorry about your loss. As pet owners ourselves, we understand how hard it can be. We hope the following resources will help you through your grief journey.
Appointment

“Give sorrow words; the grief that does not speak whispers the o’er-fraught heart and bids it break.”
– William Shakespeare

Helpful Grief Resources

Have you been caring for your ill companion, perhaps for several months or even just a day? Have you just lost your furry best friend from a sudden sickness, accident, or after a long gradual decline? Do you have other family members, children, or pets that are having difficulty and feel overwhelmed by a loss or impending loss? The sleepless nights spent worrying about your pet can put strain on your emotional, mental, and physical health. Grief is draining and surrounds you before, during, and after the loss of your beloved pet. We at The Helpful Heeler understand this exhausting journey and would like to help you care for yourself. We hope the professional resources below will help you cope. Don’t hesitate to call us with questions.

Counseling Services

Deborah A. Massey, MSS, LSCW, CAS

Chat Rooms

Websites and General Resources

Children & Pet Loss

Books
When a Pet Dies by Fred Rogers

The Invisible Leash by Patrice Karst

Dear Brave Friend by Leigh Ann Gerk

Understanding Your Grief by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D.

Grief One Day at a Time by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph. D.

The Paradoxes of Mourning by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph. D.

The Healing Your Grieving Heart Journal for Teens by Alan D. Wolfelt & Megan E. Wolfelt

How I Feel: A Coloring Book for Grieving Children by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph. D.

Healing Your Grieving Heart for Kids by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph. D.

Everything Dies! A Coloring Book About Life! By Bri Barton

Suicide and Mental Health Crisis Resources