The sorrow associated with the recent or impending loss of a pet can be overwhelming. You are not alone in feeling the way you do and there are ways to help you cope with the loss of your loved one.

When your pet - sometimes your best friend - dies, even close friends may not know how to help you or what to say. Those who don't own pets often find it hard to comprehend the loss of the relationship you enjoyed so much and may unintentionally upset you.

Time, of course, is the great healer. Creating a memorial can help, like holding a small remembrance service in your garden or planting a tree or plant, either where your pet is buried, or in a favorite spot. This can also help children with the loss of a pet as they watch the tree grow and blossom and remember their pet. Talking to someone who has been through a similar experience is also a great comfort, which is one of the reasons why The Society of Companion Animal Studies has teamed up with the Blue Cross to create a 'Befriender Service'.

Telephone 'Befrienders' are there to counsel and listen to pet owners who have been bereaved. Befrienders are volunteers of all ages and backgrounds, have completed a six-month training programme, and receive calls in their own home. They offer a 'listening ear' to help pet owners work through their loss.

You can contact their helpline on freephone 0800 096 6606 every day between 8.30am and 8.30pm. A co-ordinator will provide you with the contact details of the nearest available befriender. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.scas.org.uk. The site also offers a range of articles to give you all the support you need at this difficult time.

Remember that it is not silly to feel very upset, even devastated by the loss of your pet. If you feel very depressed please contact your GP or Samaritans to discuss how you feel. www.samaritans.org, 08457 90 90 90.

It might also help to talk to, or read books written by, those who have experienced a loss or who have professional training in this area.

Books you might find helpful

'Absent Friends', by Laura and Martyn Lee., published by Henston.

'The Final Farewell; Preparing For and Mourning the Loss of Your Pet'; by Marty Tousley and Katherine Heuerman, 1997, Our Pals Publishing Co. ISBN0965712818

'Loving and Losing a Pet: a Psychologist and a Veterinarian Share Their Wisdom'; by Michael Stern and Susan Cropper, 1998, Jason Aronson Publishers. ISBN 0765701162

'Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children'; by Herbert A. Nieburg, Arlene Fischer and Martin Scot Kosins, 1996, Harper Perennial Library. ISBN 0060926783

'A Special Place for Charlee: A Child's Companion Through Pet Loss'; by Debby Morehead and Karen Cannon, 1996, American Animal Hospital Association. ISBN 0965404900

‘Coping with pet loss (overcoming common problems)’; by Robin Grey. 2006, Sheldon Press. ISBN 0859699624

‘Goodbye, Dear Friend: Coming to terms with the death of a pet.’ By Virginia Ironside. 2009, JR Books Ltd. ISBN 1906217939

‘When a Family Pet Dies: A Guide to Dealing with Children’s Loss’, by JoAnn Tuzeo-Jarolmen. 2006; Jessica Kingsley Publishers. ISBN 1843108364,