Click here for Sophie's Poem

Sophie, 2006

Are you . . .

grieving the illness or death

of a dear animal,

struggling with overwhelming

emotions,

finding little support for

your feelings,

concerned or embarrassed by

the intensity of your response?

If any of the above are true for you, know that there is nothing wrong or extraordinary about your emotions; in fact, they are normal, natural and necessary. Oftentimes, our society, health professionals, even families and friends are ill-prepared to support us in the full expression of our grief. This is especially common when the object of our loss is an animal.

Sophie's Gift offers grief counseling and bereavement services to adults and children in need of additional support when experiencing the illness or loss of an animal friend.

Helpful Links

Gerber Animal Law Center

After 12 years as a corporate lawyer, Calley Gerber gave up that job to start a practice dedicated to animals and animal law. She addresses cruelty issues, as well as what happens to pets when they are abandoned, involved in divorce custody disputes or left behind after an owner dies.

Tera Thomas/Hummingbird Farm

Of inestimable help to me during Sophie's illness was animal communicator Tera Thomas. It is with enthusiasm and gratitude that I recommend Tera to anyone needing to navigate the often turbulent waters of an animal friend's illness. Tera founded and runs Hummingbird Farm near Pittsboro, NC, "a 49-acre learning center and inspirational sanctuary where animals, humans, and the earth work in partnership. ...dedicated to deepening the understanding, respect, communication, and relationship between all living beings and the natural world around us."

Faithful Friends Pet Cremation

AniMall Pet Adoption and Outreach

AniMall is a locally-run, independent non-profit organization in Research Triangle Park. Owners Dan and Talena offer rescues & shelters a place to showcase their adoptable animals inside a public mall to increase their chances for adoption.

Companion Chi