For many, the death of a pet is like losing a family member, but one East Tennessee group is trying to help folks cope with the loss.
The UT College of Veterinary Social Work held a pet memorial celebration Friday evening.
The night is designed to promote healing with various activities that share the memory of pets that have passed.
Organizers say there is strength in numbers when tackling the loss of a beloved animal.
"There is fellowship in loss. Pet loss is something that isn't generally supported, and so these folks can come together and support each other, but tonight is also a celebration of the life of their animal," said Sarina Lyall.
The next pet memorial service will be on the second Sunday in September.