PULLMAN, Wash. — When you have a pet, they quickly become a part of your family. Washington State University will be hosting a celebration of life for pet owners who have lost a pet.
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. Veterinary chaplain Scott Campbell has organized a special ceremony to give owners the opportunity to remember their pet companions.
Many pet owners don’t get the chance to fully grieve the loss of a pet. This is an opportunity for them to grieve but also recognize the amazing memories that they brought to their life.
“Society often overlooks the depth of grief that we can experience when we lose a non-human family member or a special patient. This collective denial can compound sorrow, leading to what’s known as disenfranchised grief,” Campbell said. “The Celebration of Life and Remembrance ceremonies provide a validating space for individuals and families to process their loss and find an opportunity for healing that can’t always be found otherwise.”
The WSU College of Veterinary Medicine will host the “Celebration of Life and Remembrance for Our Animal Companions” at 10 a.m. on Oct 21 inside the Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center.
The event is free and will have live music and drinks. Anyone who has lost a animal companion either their own or as part of their family are encouraged to join.
Participants will also be offered a ribbon where they can write about their pet and tie it to a remembrance garland with other ribbons. This garland will be hung at the WSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s Memorial Garden.
This event is a powerful experience and is a safe space for all pet owners to remember the legacy of their lost companions.
For more information, visit the Washington State University website.
