The best books for children and adults coping with the loss of a pet

I first read this book as a 21-year-old woman who had just lost her father. Other than losing pets, this was my first experience with loss. The book Freddie the Leaf seemed like a children’s book, but its themes and messages were so relatable, even though I was a senior in college. I remember the simple way that the concepts of passing seasons and life and death were portrayed in such a comforting manner, and I was so grateful that someone gifted me with this book during the most difficult time in my life. 

This is such a beautiful tale of a mother comforting her children by explaining that they are always connected by an invisible string. As a mother of three, I have often told my own children a similar fact: We are forever connected, and I will always remain in your heart, even if I am not with you. I love that message that is contained in The Invisible String, reminding readers that we are always close to those we love. 

This book is full of comforting information for those who have lost a pet and are going through the grieving process. I remember reading this book and feeling so grateful that a psychologist put together this information specifically for those of us who are coping with losing a pet. I love my dogs, and they are a big part of my family. When I have lost them, I feel devastated. Pet grief is a bereavement process that deserves attention, care, and understanding, and this book helps us to understand that intense grief.