Funds through the Veterinary Health Center TIGER (Together in Grief, Easing Recovery) Program will ease the passing of a beloved pet as we know our companion animals make a strong and lasting mark in the lives of their human counterparts. The bond that is created does not disappear when death occurs. Strong emotional and physical reactions to the death of a companion animal are healthy and normal. They include feelings of grief, pain, shock, anxiety and guilt. These reactions can be overwhelming, which is why this fund is beneficial in the healing process that we can offer. Grieving is a process that is unique for each individual. Being able to find a personal way to acknowledge the special bond is a necessary step to processing one’s grief. Our program strives to provide assistance and support to clients who bring their animals to the MU Veterinary Health Center.
Areas in which the funds will support:
• End-of-life concerns (talking through the process)
• Anticipatory grief
• How to talk to children about animal health and death
• Ways to memorialize the special bond with a companion animal
• Resources to help people cope with the loss of their animal
• Grief counselor available to talk with animal owners
• Training for faculty, staff and students