SPCA Serving Erie County Launches Pet Loss Support Group June 18
May 12, 2026
By: Chief Communications Officer Gina Lattuca, (716) 875-7360, ext. 244
The bond between a person and a pet is often woven into the quietest moments of daily life — the gentle nudge of a nose at the end of a difficult day, the familiar sound of paws crossing the floor, the unwavering companionship that asks for nothing more than love in return. When that bond is broken through loss or even surrender, the grief can feel profound and isolating. Recognizing the deep emotional impact that comes with saying goodbye to a beloved animal companion, the SPCA Serving Erie County is launching a new Pet Loss Support Group designed to help grieving pet owners find comfort, understanding, and connection.
Beginning Thursday, June 18, the support group will meet on the first and third Thursday of each month at the SPCA’s 300 Harlem Rd., West Seneca location. Scheduled from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., the sessions are open to anyone 18 years of age or older coping with the loss of a pet or with the need to rehome a pet. There is no fee to attend, and registration is not required. Participants are welcome to simply arrive and take part in a safe, compassionate environment created specifically for those navigating grief. (While child care will not be available, the SPCA can provide resources for families seeking guidance to help younger children process the loss of a pet.)
The group will be facilitated by Jackie Lentz*, who holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and understands how deeply the loss of an animal companion can affect a person’s emotional well-being. 
“Losing a pet can be deeply painful,” said Lentz. “For many people, pets are family members… companions… sources of comfort and support. When they’re gone, the loss can feel overwhelming… and it’s not always something others fully understand or know how to support. This is designed to be a welcoming group, providing a judgment-free environment for anyone coping with the loss of a pet for any reason.”
Lentz emphasizes that every grief journey is unique and deserving of 
compassion. “Whether the loss is recent, or happened years ago, whether the loss was sudden or expected, all experiences of grief are valid here. Participants will be invited to share their stories, talk about their pets, and express emotions openly.”
At the heart of the new program is a simple but meaningful mission: helping people feel less alone in their grief. There will be no pressure for participants to speak, with listening valued just as much as sharing. “Our goal is not to help people ‘move on.’ We aren’t here to rush healing,” Lentz said. “We are here to help pet owners process loss at their own pace while feeling understood. We hope to normalize all levels of the grieving process… the intense feelings, the feelings of isolation… we want our participants to feel less alone.”
Those seeking additional information about the support group can contact Lentz directly at (716) 875-7360, ext. 204 | JackieL@yourspca.org .
*The SPCA’s Jackie Lentz is a compassionate group facilitator and former Crisis Counselor with a heart for helping people navigate grief and loss. She holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. As a devoted animal lover and pet parent herself, she understands the deep bond between people and their pets and the pain that comes with saying goodbye. Through this support group, Jackie offers a safe, supportive space where people can process their grief and feel less alone in their healing journey.
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Pet Loss Support Group PDF:
Law that went into effect in 2003. Thanks to a legislative push in late 2018 that led to stronger laws concerning the tethering of dogs within Buffalo city limits, the SPCA and other law enforcement organizations can now take even more steps to ensure dogs are protected from the elements.
Last month, the SPCA Serving Erie County took in two ball pythons after they were found at a gas station in Amherst. Now, both pythons are adjusting to life in their new homes!
“Ambassador animals, or animal teachers as we like to call them, visit thousands of community members each year, teaching them about the SPCA, the variety of ways the SPCA helps our community, what to do when you find an animal/no longer can keep an animal, and what proper care looks like for certain animals,” said Christine Davis, said SPCA director of community education.
