Getting a cancer diagnosis for your dog is devastating. There is no way around that. And not everyone in your life understands what you are going through. Reach out to a dog cancer support group to find out that you are not alone.
Key Takeaways
- There are support groups for dog cancer online, on social media platforms, and maybe in your community.
- Coping with your dog having cancer is very hard. There is no point in sugarcoating it: it’s terrible, scary, and frustrating. Reaching out for support from other dog lovers is helpful for learning how to cope.
- No matter how long you have left with your dog, your dog wants you to be happy. Reaching out for support from others going through the same thing helps keep you connected, present, and calm.
Dog Cancer Support Groups Are Filled with People Like You
Dog cancer support groups are community meetings where you can share your experiences and seek comfort and counsel from other group members.
The groups are made up of people who also have struggled with the grief surrounding dog cancer. It is intended to be a safe and warm place to process your feelings without judgment.
It is also a good place to seek advice from others on non-medical products and techniques that may help manage your dog’s quality of life before the end.
Some grief and cancer support groups are informal, while others are organized and hosted by social workers or mental health professionals.
Remember that a support group is only one place you can find support for your grief and loss. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help from your pastor or therapist, too.
Types of Dog Cancer Support Groups
More often now, these groups meet online. The online platform can be live or in chat format like Facebook. Although online communities can feel less personal, they allow members from all over the world to connect and grant flexibility in terms of time commitment.
In-person groups are also a wonderful way to connect and get support. To find local groups not listed on this resource page, consider checking with your veterinarian, or at community centers, churches, and local pet stores for listings. Or you can always start your own!
Members of the Dog Cancer Support group on Facebook have great advice for you in this episode of DOG CANCER ANSWERS.
Online Dog Cancer Support Groups
These groups are specifically focused on dog cancer. All of the people in these groups either have or have had a dog with cancer and understand what you are going through.
FETCH a Cure Pet Cancer Support Group
Rainbows Bridge Pets with Cancer Chat Room
This podcast episode provides a lot of support for folks facing a terrible decision at any time of year, but especially during the holidays.
Pet Loss Support Groups
If your dog has passed away, you may struggle with grief and loss. These resources are available to help with pet loss.
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement
Lap of Love Pet Loss Support Groups and Resources (free groups and more individualized paid options)
AMC Pet Loss Support Group and AMC Forever in our Hearts Support Circle
Upstate Veterinary Specialties Virtual Bereavement Group
University of Tennessee Pet Loss Support Group
University of Minnesota Companion Animal Love, Loss & Memories Group (CALLM)
DoveLewis Pet Loss Support Virtual and In-Person
San Francisco SPCA Pet Loss Support Group
UC Davis Pet Loss Support Group
Colorado State University Pet Loss Resources and Support Groups (virtual and in-person)
Tufts University Support Group (North Grafton, Massachusetts)
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