A free monthly pet bereavement support group is now being offered by a member of the clergy and the director of the Nicodemus Memorial Park. Anyone whose pet has passed away, been lost, sick, or dying is welcome to join the group at any time. The hope is that members will take comfort in sharing with others going through the same difficult experience. The group is a safe haven where individuals can freely talk about their pet knowing others are interested in hearing their story. It is a place of emotional and practical support helping participants cope with their loss. All that's required to attend is an RSVP.

Can't make the pet grief group in person? You can Skype in! Just RSVP to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make the arrangements.

An online support group has also been launched for those who want to communicate with others in more than just a once a month setting. The Nicodemus Memorial Park Bereavement Support Group can be found at Facebook.com/BMoreHumanePetLoss. Pet owners are invited to post photos and stories about their lost pets. There is also a Notes page for discussions and helpful information. The page works to protect the privacy of its members by allowing posts only to be seen by group members.

For those people who choose Nicodemus Memorial Park as their pet's final resting place, immediate non-denominational private counseling is also available with an experienced member of the clergy. There is no charge for this service unless the bereaved chooses to continue with more sessions.

Memorial services for loved ones are another important part of the grieving process. So Nicodemus Memorial Park at Baltimore Humane Society has decided to enhance its pet memorial services by including a complimentary option of a musical remembrance. A professional Cantor and a member of the clergy for over two decades, Ellen Schwab, sings a non-denominational psalm and one other selection of your choice at the memorial. It's a spiritual addition to a service held on wooded, ethereal grounds.

Pet Bereavement Support Group
First Tuesdays, 7pm • FREE
Nicodemus Memorial Park
Baltimore Humane Society
1601 Nicodemus Rd. • Reisterstown
RSVP: 410.833.8848 ext. 219
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The Baltimore Humane Society is an independent, non-profit, no-kill animal shelter, which offers low-cost veterinary care to the public, and a pet cemetery with grief support services. For more information about BHS, and how you can contribute, volunteer, adopt, or foster, please visit BMoreHumane.org or call 410.833.8848, or text the word "PAW" to 80000 to donate $10.