Losing a beloved pet is an incredibly painful experience. For many, pets are not just animals; they are family members, loyal companions, and sources of unconditional love. When they pass away, the grief can be overwhelming and isolating. Kevin Ringstaff, founder of PetCloud, understands this deeply. PetCloud was established as a vital resource, a community where individuals can openly share their grief and receive compassionate support from others who truly empathize with the unique pain of pet loss.
Moving to San Francisco in 2019, Kevin dedicated himself to developing PetCloud into a global haven for those navigating pet bereavement. He recognized a significant gap in societal understanding and support for pet grief. Often, this type of grief is minimized or dismissed, leaving pet owners feeling alone and invalidated in their sorrow. PetCloud directly addresses this issue, providing a space where these feelings are not only acknowledged but also normalized and supported.
Through extensive study and years of counseling experience, Kevin has gained profound insights into the complexities of grief. He observed a societal tendency to suppress grief, particularly when it comes to pets. Talking about the depth of sorrow felt after losing a pet can feel awkward, and individuals may fear judgment or misunderstanding. PetCloud aims to break down these barriers, encouraging open conversations about pet loss and validating the intense emotions involved.
Kevin’s personal journey fuels his passion for PetCloud. The loss of his cherished cat, Henry “Fats” Rothschild, known affectionately as “Henry”, was a pivotal moment. Experiencing this profound loss himself, Kevin realized the scarcity of accessible and understanding support systems for pet owners grieving. Initially, he internalized his grief, a common reaction when facing loss without adequate support. This personal experience motivated him to seek formal training and become a source of comfort for others.
His search for resources led him to the Association for Pet Loss & Bereavement (APLB), founded by Dr. Wallace Sife (www.aplb.org). Becoming certified as a pet loss bereavement counselor through APLB was a crucial step in Kevin’s journey to help others. This certification provided him with the knowledge and skills to effectively support individuals through their pet grief. Since then, Kevin has broadened his expertise, becoming a registered Pet Chaplain and a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist®. Driven by a continuous desire to learn and offer deeper support, he is currently pursuing board certification as a Chaplain. Kevin’s ongoing dedication to learning and his willingness to listen are at the heart of PetCloud’s mission, ensuring it remains a compassionate and knowledgeable resource for anyone experiencing pet loss.
