Pet Industry Booming, but No Resources Offered to Grieving Pet Owners

The Pet Industry is a booming business. According to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association Americans spend over 38 Billion dollars a year on their pets. Billions of dollars are also spent on Veterinary Care and Pet Insurance has reached $160 Million in premiums. Pet residents now total 63% of all U.S. households, more Americans have pets than children.

We are convinced..yea brain washed by elaborate advertisement to treat our pets as family members. We contribute to the growth of the Pet Industry. Vet bills are outrageous and often our vets treat the passing of our dear pets as an everyday occurrence.

In spite of the many dollars we contribute to this growing business there is little or no help for many of us who have deep bonds with our pets when they die. I am of the belief that Vets should do more than send a card with a copy of the Rainbow Bridge. When we walk out of their office with just a leash in our hands and the door closes behind us, we are totally on our own. No resources are suggested or given to us to help us understand or cope with the emotional stress we have just gone through or the after effects of going home alone after a bond of many many years.

I am on a mission to change this. I think if we can support such a money making industry that we need to acknowledge the fact that Pet Loss is devastating to individuals, families and especially children. In my endeavor to assist and guide people through their pet loss many have expressed the desire to see the day when it is OK to grieve for their furry family member without judgment or fear or reprisal from friends, family or co workers.

I am very proud to be one of 38 Interfaith Animal Clergy members who offers inspirational services to help the heart heal. I am also a very proud member of a community of people who believe that it is our mission to reach out to those who may not have a good support system in place in their personal lives. Our pets are part of our lives for as many as 15 yrs or more, don't we deserve some understanding and resources?

I would personally like to see a change in how we handle Pet Loss. It would be great if our Vets would be more compassionate, understanding and supply resources for each and every person who comes through the door with their furry friend but leaves alone.

Rev. Dee Siat CGRS
http://petseverlasting.com