WALKING THROUGH GRIEF TOGETHER

In-person meetups

Losing a beloved pet can feel heartbreaking, lonely, and incredibly isolating.

Our monthly “walk our grief” meetups offer a gentle way to step outside, connect with nature, and spend time alongside other grieving pet parents who actually understand what it feels like to lose a special animal companion.

There’s no pressure to talk or share. Some people chat openly. Some walk quietly. Both are welcome.

With support from The National Lottery Community Fund, we’re helping make pet loss support more accessible across the UK.

Feeling nervous about joining?

Many people come to their first meetup feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, or unsure what to expect. You don’t need to have the right words or know exactly what to say. Some people talk while they walk. Some people simply enjoy being around others who understand. All of it’s welcome here.

What a meetup feels like

Our meetups are intentionally gentle, informal, and supportive.

We take a slow walk together, often by the sea or in nature, with space to talk, listen, or simply walk quietly beside others who understand.

We usually stop for a soft drink along the way before sitting together by the beach to chat and simply be around others who get it. 

Most people leave feeling calmer, lighter, and a little less alone.

“The meetup was absolutely lovely and I had the best day! It felt really supportive and was a bright spot in my day. I loved being able to talk in person about slightly different things whilst still keeping the focus on our beloved animals. I was emotional afterwards, but in a way that I think did me good. I'll definitely come along to the next meetup and would recommend it to other grieving pet parents.”

  • - SARAH LOST POPPY, HER PARSON RUSSELL SPANIEL CROSS, IN OCTOBER 2025

THE NEXT WALK

‘Walk our grief’ meetup

🗓 June
⏰ 12pm–2pm
📍 Brighton, UK

“It was a lovely afternoon being around other like-minded people, very grounding and simple. It was nice to have some human company. I needed to dedicate some time to remembering Benny, as our connection was beyond words, so to have a meetup for this was brilliant.”

- BEN LOST BENNY, HIS JACK RUSSELL, IN JANUARY 2026

Take a gentle first step.

If you feel ready, you’re warmly welcome to join our next in-person meetup and walk alongside others who truly understand pet loss grief.

Still not sure if a meetup feels right for you?

That’s completely OK. Many people feel nervous before joining their first meetup, especially when their grief still feels raw or overwhelming.

There’s no pressure to rush this step. Take your time to read through the FAQs below and explore stories from other members of our community.

We hope this helps you feel a little more at ease and reminds you that you don’t have to go through this alone.

Frequently asked questions

If something isn't covered below, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can walk you through every detail before you join us. 

  • This meetup is for anyone grieving the loss of a beloved pet, no matter how recent or long ago. You’re welcome at any stage of your grief.

  • We’ll take a gentle walk in nature and/or by the sea, with time to talk, listen, or simply walk quietly alongside others who ‘get it’. If it feels right, we may also stop for a drink and a snack together.

    There’s no pressure to share. You’re welcome to take things at your own pace.

  • As much as we love dogs, to help keep the space gentle and supportive for everyone, we kindly ask that dogs not be brought along, as seeing other pets can be difficult for some grieving pet parents.

  • That’s completely natural. Many people feel unsure before their first meetup. Please know that everyone is so nice, friendly, and supportive. You won’t be expected to do anything, just coming along is enough.

  • That’s completely OK. This is a kind, compassionate, and safe space where all feelings are welcome. There's no judgement at all in our group.

  • If you’re running late, please email sonia@petlosssupportgroup.co.uk

    As we’ll be walking, it may be difficult to catch up once the meetup has started.

  • No. This is a peer support space. It’s a safe and compassionate environment to share your feelings, but it’s not therapy or professional counselling.


Join an in-person meetup