Helpline Volunteers

Pet Loss HELPLINE ~ “A truly rewarding experience!”

The HELPLINE is a confidential, free-of-charge support service designed to provide comfort and emotional support to clients coping with the loss of a beloved animal companion. Staffed entirely by trained volunteers, the HELPLINE offers a safe, nonjudgmental space where grieving pet owners can speak openly about their loss with someone who understands the human–animal bond.

Volunteers return calls from clients during weekday evenings, typically between the hours of 7:00 and 9:00 PM. This quiet, dedicated time allows for compassionate listening and meaningful conversation — support that can be difficult to provide during the pace and pressure of a busy clinic day.

Each volunteer commits to being on duty approximately once every 4 to 5 weeks, always on the same evening of the week to allow for consistent scheduling. On average, volunteers respond to one call per shift, though this may vary. All calls are anonymous, and volunteers are trained to offer empathetic, non-clinical support rather than counseling or therapy.

Serving on the HELPLINE offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of grieving clients by offering your time, your presence, and a listening ear when it’s needed most. For many callers, this may be their only opportunity to speak freely about their grief — and your compassion can help begin their healing journey.

The Pet Loss Helpline has a six-hour training seminar (with CE credits) that utilizes our experiences in the clinic to start off volunteers.

DVMs interested in becoming a Helpline Volunteer: Please contact the CVMA office at 630-325-1231 or kmarshall@cvma.org.

Wings – Pet Loss SUPPORT GROUP

The CVMA provides a virtual Pet Loss SUPPORT GROUP called Wings on the first Wednesday of every month from 7:30-9:00 pm.  No reservations required and no charge to attend.

Pet Loss Brochures & Sympathy Cards are available to purchase. Please contact the CVMA office for details: (630) 325-1231