The Heart to Paw pet loss support program was created to support pet families through some of the most emotional and challenging moments of the pet journey. Led by Dr. Heather Teter, a Licensed Social Worker, this program provides compassionate, non-clinical support for those navigating caregiving, end-of-life decisions, and grief.
Dr. Heather Teter is a licensed social worker who brings professional training, compassion, and calm presence to the Heart to Paw Support Program. Her work centers on supporting individuals and families during emotionally intense life transitions—especially those involving illness, caregiving, end-of-life decisions, and grief.
At Heart to Paw, Heather provides non-clinical emotional and practical support to pet families navigating some of the most difficult moments of pet ownership.
Her professional background
Heather is trained in social work with a focus on emotional support during high-stress, life-altering experiences. Her background allows her to help clients process complex emotions, communicate effectively during overwhelming situations, and feel supported when decisions feel heavy or unclear.
Her role within Heart to Paw is designed to complement—not replace—veterinary care or clinical mental health services.
What guides her work
Heather believes that caring for pets also means caring for the people who love them.
Pet families often carry:
- Guilt about decisions
- Fear of “doing the wrong thingâ€
- Overwhelm during medical conversations
- Grief that others may not fully understand
Her work focuses on meeting clients where they are, honoring the human-animal bond, and creating space for clarity, compassion, and support—without judgment or pressure.
Scope & boundaries
To ensure ethical, supportive care:
- Heather does not diagnose, prescribe, or provide medical treatment
- She does not replace veterinarians, therapists, or counselors
- Services are non-clinical and focused on emotional support, communication, and practical guidance
When additional clinical or emergency support is needed, Heather helps guide clients toward appropriate resources.
For more information on our support scope. Please see our page
Why Heart to Paw exists
Heart to Paw was created to support the often-overlooked emotional side of pet care—especially during illness, end-of-life, and loss.
Heather’s role is to walk alongside pet families during these moments, offering steadiness, understanding, and compassionate support when it matters most.
If you’re navigating a difficult chapter with your pet and need supportive guidance, Heart to Paw is here to help.
You’re doing your best—and your love is showing in every step you take.
For more information on Heather’s professional background:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-heather-teter-lsw-cssw-210792176/
Questions About Heart 2 Paw
No. Heart to Paw provides non-clinical emotional and practical support. It is designed to complement—not replace—therapy, counseling, or veterinary care.
Dr. Heather Teter is a Licensed Social Worker who leads the Heart to Paw Support Program. She provides compassionate support to help pet families navigate emotional, complex, and often overwhelming situations.
Veterinary care focuses on your pet’s medical needs. Heart to Paw focuses on supporting you—the pet parent—through the emotional and decision-making side of the experience.
Support may include emotional guidance, help preparing for conversations, and space to process what you’re going through in a calm, compassionate environment.
That’s completely okay. We offer a free consult so you can ask questions, learn more, and decide if this feels like the right kind of support for you.