Memorial Gathering at NC State Veterinary Health Complex Celebrates Human-Animal Bond
The Veterinary Health Complex at NC State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine celebrates the human-animal bond in a ceremony for anyone who has lost a pet through a “Kindred Companions Memorial Gathering” beginning at 6:15 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2.
Hosted by the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Foundation, the Memorial Gathering is an opportunity for individuals to come together with others to remember a beloved animal and the influence that companion had on their lives.
“The relationship people have with animals are often deep and enduring,” says Jeannine Moga, a clinical counselor with the Veterinary Health Complex. “When those animals die rituals like the Memorial Gathering, in which we fondly recall an animal companion, can be comforting.”
Moga, whose specialties include human-animal relationships and animal loss, will help lead the ceremony. Opening remarks will be offered by Sandy Alford, North Carolina Veterinary Medical Foundation, and Dr. Barbara Sherman, clinical professor and director of the Behavioral Medicine Service. This year also marks the debut of Beyond the Bridge, an original song composed and performed by the Kindred One Notes, a group of musicians from within the College of Veterinary Medicine.
The Memorial Gathering, which is free and open to the public, will be held rain or shine and will involve reflection, candle lighting, and music. The event will take place outdoors on the Hearth of the Veterinary Health Complex located at 1060 William Moore Drive in Raleigh near the intersection of Hillsborough Street and Blue Ridge Highway.
Attendees are invited to bring a framed photo of the animal they would like to honor but are asked to leave pets at home. Attendees may being a friend and may register by visiting www.ncstatevets.org/memorial/ Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & Home Euthanasia and Faithful Friends Pet Cremation Service are sponsoring the 2nd Annual Kindred Companions Memorial Gathering.
