I was desparately looking for a book on grieving the loss of a pet when I lost both of my cats to illness. I was prepared for one loss, but not the other, which took me by surprise. I came across this work by Lagnoni, Butler and Hetts, and found that it not only helped me see what was going on in my own emotional situation, but it also taught me what I should be looking for in a veterinary clinic. Working as a volunteer at an animal shelter, I also see the effects of euthanasia on the workers there, and perhaps this book would be helpful to some in those situations. It is clearly written, stocked with good examples and true life experiences, and sets up a protocol for vet practices to be better able to deal with their clients, both people and animals, in life changing situations. It accepts that animals are a large part of many peoples lives, as important as people. In doing so, the authors recognize that compassion, empathy, and understanding are necessary to help clients cope with their pet loss, and grief. It also recognizes that staff working in the animal health care field are also in need of guidance on how to cope with these difficult situations. The book is well organized, and makes a good reference text for specific situations, as well as provides general overview on how to achieve a compassionate and caring clinic.
