Grief & Loss
The Rainbow Bridge
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….
– Author Unknown
Assessing Quality of Life
It’s never easy to make the decision to euthanize a pet. If you are concerned that it may soon be time to let them cross the Rainbow Bridge but need some guidance, we offer quality of life assessment exams. Call us at 856-881-7470 or send us an email
A general rule of thumb is that when a pet is having more bad days than good days with no end in sight (not part of a short-term issue that will resolve with time), it may be time. You may find it beneficial to keep a daily log of your pet’s activities and symptoms. The Pet Hospice Journal is a free online tool made just for this purpose.
Pet Loss Support & Groups
If you are finding it hard to cope with the loss of your pet, these resources may be helpful.
Mount Laurel Animal Hospital has a monthly Pet Loss Support Group at their location in Mount Laurel, NJ.
Day By Day Pet Caregiver Support also runs several Support Circles in our area (locations and times found on their website).
The University of Pennsylvania’s Ryan Pet Hospital provides many resources for people who are grieving the loss of their pet, including professional licensed counselling services.
If you are not in the Southern New Jersey / Philadelphia area, you can find additional Pet Loss Support Groups and resources at the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement.
Paws to Heaven Pet Crematory
We offer both private and communal cremation services by Paws to Heaven Pet Crematory. If your pet has passed away at home and you would like to bring them to our office to be cremated, please call us at 856-881-7470. If our team is anticipating your arrival, we can offer you assistance in bringing your pet into the building or arrange for you to meet a team member at an alternate entrance.
In Home Euthanasia Resources
Although our doctors do not provide in home euthanasia, we highly recommend Lap of Love. Lap of Love exclusively provides Hospice and In-Home Euthanasia services. They also provide aftercare (cremation) services.