Client Support Services

The University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) recognizes the unique and enduring bonds that form between people and their animals - animals who are family members, confidantes, guardians, and best friends.?? When these bonds are tested by illness, behavior problems, injury, or death, it can feel overwhelming.

The VMC veterinary team includes social workers who understand both the joys and challenges of human-animal relationships. Our veterinary medical social workers provide counseling services that include:

• Support and advocacy related to animal illness, treatment, and recovery
• Guidance for end-of-life planning and decision-making
• Support before, during, and after humane euthanasia
• Grief education and short-term grief counseling
• Crisis support and referral related to family and animal abuse, neglect, and violence

Social Work Services are complimentary and confidential for all VMC clients and their families.?? Phone consultations and a bi-weekly bereavement group are also available to all community members at no charge. While you may be introduced to this service by other members of the veterinary team, you may also contact Social Work Services directly at any time you need assistance. Social Work Services are voluntary, so the decision to accept or decline Social Work Services is always yours.

Social Work Services are available weekdays between 8:00am and 4:30pm CST; limited evening appointments are available by advance request.

To contact us:

• Call the VMC Social Work Services office at 612-624-9372, or

• Dr. Linda Wolf Animal Emergency Fund
  
  
• Companion Animal Love, Loss, and Memories (CALLM) Group
  
  
• Resources