In today’s episode we are talking to the phenomenal Diane James, who heads up the Pet Bereavement Support Service at Blue Cross, leading a team of volunteers who help over 28,000 pet owners a year, supporting them through their grief following the loss of a pet. As a leading UK expert on bereavement, Diane is able to explain the huge impact that the loss of a pet can have on us, and give some really practical advice on how to deal with our grief. This vital service is literally life-saving and supports people who are often at their lowest ebb. On this episode of The Consult Room we would like to advise caution as some listeners may find conversations about pet grief difficult or upsetting. However, you are not alone, and hearing about this great service and the people behind it, may indeed help you with your own personal experience. Topics in this episode: The evolution of the Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service The different types of bereavement pet owners can face from death, rehoming and the unresolved loss of theft. Why people pick up the phone to the helpline The grief cycle and the emotions experienced that are unique to pet loss How the pandemic and cost of living crisis has changed the the calls to the helpline Real life stories and experiences of callers to the helpline How can vets help pet owners with loss after euthanasia The services that Blue Cross offer to support professionals dealing with pet bereavement Managing the feelings of guilt surrounding pet euthanasia Insight into the volunteers of the pet bereavement service. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people. Join Dr Paul Manktelow at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at [email protected] If you are struggling with the loss of a pet you can contact the Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service from 8.30am until 8.30pm either on the phone on 0800 096 6606 or via their webchat support service on the Blue Cross website, www.bluecross.org.uk