Woods Humane Society, Hospice SLO County launch monthly pet loss support group

By Atascadero News · Mon Feb 23 2026

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Woods Humane Society and Hospice SLO County have partnered to offer a new, free monthly grief support group for pet owners mourning the loss of a beloved animal.

The group, called Paws to Remember, will hold its first in-person session Thursday, Feb. 26, from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Community Room at Woods Humane Society, 875 Oklahoma Ave. The support group is open to anyone who has lost or is preparing to say goodbye to a pet.

The collaboration grew out of the nonprofits’ annual pet remembrance ceremony, which is also co-hosted at Woods.

“This pet loss support group was intentionally created for those who need a safe and compassionate space to grieve the pets they have loved and lost,” said Shannon McOuat, Executive Director of Hospice SLO County. “We believe that pets are family too and it is our honor to collaborate with Woods Humane Society in offering this support to the community.”

Robin Coleman, community engagement manager for Woods Humane Society, said the partnership fills a longstanding need in the county, providing a confidential and caring space for the animal-loving community to connect, remember and heal.

Paws to Remember will meet monthly at Woods Humane Society. Future dates and additional information are available at woodshumanesociety.org