Revelstoke’s first pet loss support group is taking place on Feb. 2 from 4:30-9:30 p.m. at Dose Coffee Shop.
Few things in life are as heartbreaking as losing a loved one. This universal truth is often accompanied by support from friends, family members and the community at large.
But, what about when it’s your furry companion who has passed? What support is available to those grieving the loss of their pet?
For Celine Rytz, she saw a gap which is why she is organizing a pet loss support group. Rytz’s main goal is to create a safe and supportive environment. The drop-in structure of the event allows for people to come and go as their schedule permits.
When it comes to pet loss, Rytz said that that the impact is multi-faceted.
“Grieving a pet can be complicated by societal attitudes that may not fully recognize the depth of the bond we had with our animals. This can lead to what’s often referred to as “ambiguous grief”, where people are grieving but may not receive the same level of support socially as they would with human loss,” said Rytz.
There will be a support presentation and an opportunity to create some pet-inspired art. Rytz will bring art supplies and encourages participants to bring their own supplies as well.
Besides creating a safe space, Rytz aims to get people talking.
“Everyone has a different story and sharing it really gives people an opportunity to process it and release the emotion behind it,” said Rytz.
Proceeds from the event will be going to Gringa’s Fund. Gringa’s Fund was set up by Joe Lammers in honour of his dog, Gringa who died recently. The fund supports seniors who are unable to pay for their pet’s veterinary bills at the Revelstoke Veterinary Clinic.
As the proprietor of BARK (Backcountry First Aid and Rescue Kits), Rytz is no stranger to working with pets and understanding both the pet and owner’s needs. The company offers first aid kits for pets, as well as first training for pets.
With her background in vet medicine and her experience exploring the backcountry trails of Revelstoke and beyond, before Rytz saw a need for pet loss support, she first discovered a need to offer emergency medical training for pet owners.
While many Revelstokians are adept to the backcountry, avalanche and first aid training, Rytz realized that when it came to attending to pets in a moment of crisis, pet owners could use some help. This is especially true when you take into account that Revelstoke currently does not have 24 hour vet care, with the closest being in Lake Country or Kelowna.
“The way you respond to an emergency before you can get to the vet can really change the outcome,” said Rytz.
For those who are unable to attend the event and are dealing with the loss of a pet, Rytz has some advice-to mirror the love your pet gave you and express gratitude for that love.
“Be grateful for the time that you had for the love that you shared,” said Rytz.
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