HSCO offering free Pet Bereavement Support Group

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Humane Society of Central Oregon is offering a free six-week pet bereavement support group beginning Oct. 17 in Bend, Ore. The program aims to provide a confidential space for individuals processing the loss of a pet.

The peer support group is designed to help participants share their experiences, navigate grief and connect with others who share a bond with pets. Meetings will take place every Saturday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. through Nov. 21 at the shelter, which is located at 61170 SE 27th St.

Marla Corwin, a retired licensed clinical social worker and behavioral health specialist, will facilitate the support group.

“For many the grief of losing a pet can be as significant and painful as the loss of a human being, but is often minimized or unsupported by friends, family and employers,” Corwin said. “Participants in this six-week group are able to share their stories, feelings and reflection with others experiencing the same loss.”

Registration is required through the shelter's online form and space is capped at eight participants. To ensure participants are prepared for a group setting, the shelter requires that at least one month has passed since the pet's death before joining.

The sessions are structured as a peer support group rather than clinical therapy and all discussions remain confidential. Participants are asked to commit to all six sessions to help maintain trust, continuity and connection within the group.

The support group will open its first session on Oct. 17. Following online form submission, a team member from the Humane Society of Central Oregon will contact registrants to confirm their placement.