or some people, losing a pet can be a traumatic experience. One of the endearing traits of pets is their ability to give unconditional love. It is only natural to miss the companionship and loyalty that pets give so freely.

Unfortunately, not all of society understands our love for our pets, much less our grief at losing them. Lack of support during the grieving process may become an additional burden.

Experts agree that the best way to deal with grief is to talk about the loss. This group is made up of people who have lost a pet due to death, disappearance or any circumstance that can result in loss of a pet. People who are anticipating a loss can also benefit from a support group.

There is no charge to attend meetings or to receive newsletters. Donations are accepted but not tax deductible. The group meets monthly at local libraries.

This is a self-help group that provides education about coping with loss and the emotional support people receive from discussing common feelings.

The group has a small lending library and a newsletter that is printed periodically. The newsletter includes a memorial section available to anyone who would like to remember their pet in a special way. There is no charge for the memorial. The Pet Loss Grief Support Group of the greater Indianapolis area was started in October of 1987 by Linda cuff, a local pet lover who has owned pets all her life and consequently has lost pets through the years. Presently, the group is being staffed by volunteers who have donated their time to enable the group to continue in the direction which Linda started.

A phone support system is available for people to use in between meetings or for those who do not wish to attend meetings but do feel the need to talk with someone who understands.

National Pet Memorial Day is held annually in the month of September. Each year the group sponsors a pet memorial service or honors the memory of our pets by making a donation to an organization that aids animals.

For more information about the group or if you need to talk with someone who understands the pain of losing a beloved pet, see the "Join Us" section of the website.