New support scheme for grieving pet owners launched by Sudbury counselling service Just Talk

A wellbeing group based in Sudbury is offering vital support for people struggling with the loss of their beloved pets, with the launch of a new support service.

Glenda Roberts, a qualified psychotherapist, lost her 10-year-old Siberian husky, Quillia, two years ago.

Quillia’s death impacted Ms Roberts’ whole family, especially her three children, who were young when they first welcomed him into their home.

“They were devastated,” said Ms Roberts. “So we wanted to wait a while until we got another one.”

Before burying Quillia, the family held a ceremony in their garden and had a plaque especially made in his memory, which proved a key part of the bereavement process.

“We had closure by doing that,” said Ms Roberts.

Hoping to offer some comfort to people who have lost their animals and need help in coming to terms with their death, Just Talk 2019 is offering counselling sessions at the ExploringU Centre for Wellbeing in Station Road.

Highlighting the importance of people talking through their loss, Ms Roberts said the new sessions will offer an outlet for their grief.

“They will be able to talk about their pets and we will help them find closure,” she said. “A lot of people struggle and it’s the same as losing a loved-one.

“It’s not just a pet, it’s a part of people’s lives, part of their family and some people may not realise the impact the loss can have.”

Ms Roberts said it is important that people feel comfortable in seeking support, instead of facing the loss alone, which can be overwhelming.

“If someone has lost a pet and feels a sense of great bereavement, it’s not silly to want to talk about that loss and how it feels,” she said.

“I would encourage them to pick up the phone, or send us an email to make an appointment to come to see us.”

For more information about the new counselling sessions, click here .

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