Good Grief: Understanding Pet Loss

Loading Events

« All Events

Good Grief: Understanding Pet Loss

Sunday, August 17, 12 - 1 pm

Sun, August 17
12:00 pm
- 1:00 pm

Black cat laying down while cavalier king charles spaniel is looking

Time

Sun, August 17, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Pricing

$25

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045

Coping with the Loss of a Pet
Join Jessica from the Animal Hospital of West Lake Forest for a heartfelt session on understanding pet loss. This event is for anyone grieving a pet or supporting someone who is.

Pets are more than animals—they are family, companions, and sources of comfort. Losing them brings deep grief that’s often overlooked or misunderstood. Jessica will explain why this loss feels so intense and why it’s different from other types of grief.

Navigating the Emotions
Pet loss can trigger many emotions, including sadness, guilt, loneliness, and anger. These feelings are valid and real. Jessica will help participants better understand these reactions and explore the emotional impact of losing a beloved pet. Mourning a pet can be difficult in a world that may not fully acknowledge that loss. Jessica will talk about the lack of societal support and the importance of recognizing the pet-owner bond.

Finding Healing and Offering Support
This session offers tools and guidance for healing. Jessica will share strategies to help you move through grief and support others on their journey. Whether you’re personally grieving or want to be there for someone else, you’ll leave with insight and compassion.

Everyone Is Welcome
All pet lovers are invited to attend. This session creates a safe, understanding space to honor your pet’s memory and learn how to cope with loss from someone who truly understands.

Jessica is a CVT who has served the Lake Forest and surrounding communities at the Animal Hospital of West Lake Forest since 2004.  She is a wife and mother of 4 with 4 dogs of her own. She is passionate about helping navigate the various aspects of pet loss.  

Gorton Center is a premier destination for outstanding cultural and performing arts experiences serving the residents of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and the surrounding region. As a proud nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are dedicated to enriching our community through an array of exceptional events and programs.

At Gorton Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. Our vibrant calendar is brimming with diverse offerings, ensuring there's always something to captivate and inspire you. From live music performances that resonate with your soul to comedy nights that leave you in stitches, we curate events to suit all tastes and interests. Our dedication to quality and community engagement means you can expect only the best in cultural entertainment.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s always something extraordinary waiting for you. Come be a part of our community, where every event is an opportunity to connect, enjoy, and be inspired.

Gorton Center will take and may use photos and videos from this event for its promotional purposes. Your attendance indicates your consent to the above.

Details

Date:
Sun, August 17
Time:
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Event Categories:
, , ,
Event Tags:
,

Venue

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road
Lake Forest, IL 60045
+ Google Map
Phone
(847) 234-6060