Comforting Children's Books About Losing a Pet
Comforting Children's Books About Losing a Pet
Comforting Children's Books About Losing a Pet
Written by Corinne Demas & Illustrated by Ard Holt
Saying “goodbye” to our beloved pets is something that no dog owner looks forward to. It is often the most challenging part of homing furry family members. This tragedy becomes more complex when our children have to face these issues and upsetting themes. The best way to help a child cope with losing a pet is to offer the support they need. You can achieve this with different strategies. It always helps to be open and honest with our children about what you all are going through. Explain your feelings and express vulnerability about the loss of your pet. This will allow your child to do the same.
You may consider holding a memorial for your pet. This doesn’t have to be extreme. Designate a time and place for you and your family to grieve the loss of your pup. Another great way to introduce topics related to a pet’s death is by exploring children’s books on the subject. These books can be relatable and explain what is going on in a gentle way to comfort your child. We’ve compiled a list of five children’s books that will help your family cope with losing such an important part of your family.

Written by Corinne Demas & Illustrated by Ard Holt
“Saying Goodbye to Lulu” follows a young girl’s process as she copes with losing her best friend, Lulu. The two do everything together, and when Lulu grows old, the little girl realizes they will not get to play together forever. Although she struggles with losing her best friend, the little girl learns that Lulu will forever live on in her memory.

Written & Illustrated by Adrian Raeside

This children’s book tells the story of Rick, a seven-year-old, and his best friend, Koko, as they grow up together. Rick must face Koko’s declining health as the furry friend ages but soon learns what beautiful things await Koko in his very own pet paradise.

Written by Barbra Walsh & Illustrated by Jamie Wyeth

When illness causes Sammy’s death, his human family is distraught and struggles to cope with losing their canine. They chose to remember Sammy by participating in the activities that were his favorite.

Written by Erin Frankel & Illustrated by Aboo Yang

“Remembering Barkley” tells the story of Bear and his human counterpart, Jacob, as they navigate the loss of their friend Barkley. At first, Bear and Jacob can’t bring themselves to participate in the activities that Barkley loved to do. Eventually, the two learn how to manage their sadness by leaning on each other and remembering Barkley.

Written & Illustrated by Cynthia Ryfant

“Dog Heaven” offers and explores a comforting, imaginative, and playful idea of what our pets may experience in their afterlife. Ryfant’s storytelling and illustrations allow readers, young and old, to be whisked away and dream of what their pup may be up to in dog heaven.
If you’re going through a challenging time, don’t forget to be patient. Coming to terms with the loss of a pet differs for everyone and can take weeks, months, or even years. These books will hopefully help to make this challenging time a little simpler for your child.
Saying “goodbye” to our beloved pets is something that no dog owner looks forward to. It is often the most challenging part of homing furry family members. This tragedy becomes more complex when our children have to face these issues and upsetting themes. The best way to help a child cope with losing a pet is to offer the support they need. You can achieve this with different strategies. It always helps to be open and honest with our children about what you all are going through. Explain your feelings and express vulnerability about the loss of your pet. This will allow your child to do the same.
You may consider holding a memorial for your pet. This doesn’t have to be extreme. Designate a time and place for you and your family to grieve the loss of your pup. Another great way to introduce topics related to a pet’s death is by exploring children’s books on the subject. These books can be relatable and explain what is going on in a gentle way to comfort your child. We’ve compiled a list of five children’s books that will help your family cope with losing such an important part of your family.

Written by Corinne Demas & Illustrated by Ard Holt
“Saying Goodbye to Lulu” follows a young girl’s process as she copes with losing her best friend, Lulu. The two do everything together, and when Lulu grows old, the little girl realizes they will not get to play together forever. Although she struggles with losing her best friend, the little girl learns that Lulu will forever live on in her memory.

Written & Illustrated by Adrian Raeside

This children’s book tells the story of Rick, a seven-year-old, and his best friend, Koko, as they grow up together. Rick must face Koko’s declining health as the furry friend ages but soon learns what beautiful things await Koko in his very own pet paradise.

Written by Barbra Walsh & Illustrated by Jamie Wyeth

When illness causes Sammy’s death, his human family is distraught and struggles to cope with losing their canine. They chose to remember Sammy by participating in the activities that were his favorite.

Written by Erin Frankel & Illustrated by Aboo Yang

“Remembering Barkley” tells the story of Bear and his human counterpart, Jacob, as they navigate the loss of their friend Barkley. At first, Bear and Jacob can’t bring themselves to participate in the activities that Barkley loved to do. Eventually, the two learn how to manage their sadness by leaning on each other and remembering Barkley.

Written & Illustrated by Cynthia Ryfant

“Dog Heaven” offers and explores a comforting, imaginative, and playful idea of what our pets may experience in their afterlife. Ryfant’s storytelling and illustrations allow readers, young and old, to be whisked away and dream of what their pup may be up to in dog heaven.
If you’re going through a challenging time, don’t forget to be patient. Coming to terms with the loss of a pet differs for everyone and can take weeks, months, or even years. These books will hopefully help to make this challenging time a little simpler for your child.
Saying “goodbye” to our beloved pets is something that no dog owner looks forward to. It is often the most challenging part of homing furry family members. This tragedy becomes more complex when our children have to face these issues and upsetting themes. The best way to help a child cope with losing a pet is to offer the support they need. You can achieve this with different strategies. It always helps to be open and honest with our children about what you all are going through. Explain your feelings and express vulnerability about the loss of your pet. This will allow your child to do the same.
You may consider holding a memorial for your pet. This doesn’t have to be extreme. Designate a time and place for you and your family to grieve the loss of your pup. Another great way to introduce topics related to a pet’s death is by exploring children’s books on the subject. These books can be relatable and explain what is going on in a gentle way to comfort your child. We’ve compiled a list of five children’s books that will help your family cope with losing such an important part of your family.

Written by Corinne Demas & Illustrated by Ard Holt
“Saying Goodbye to Lulu” follows a young girl’s process as she copes with losing her best friend, Lulu. The two do everything together, and when Lulu grows old, the little girl realizes they will not get to play together forever. Although she struggles with losing her best friend, the little girl learns that Lulu will forever live on in her memory.

Written & Illustrated by Adrian Raeside

This children’s book tells the story of Rick, a seven-year-old, and his best friend, Koko, as they grow up together. Rick must face Koko’s declining health as the furry friend ages but soon learns what beautiful things await Koko in his very own pet paradise.

Written by Barbra Walsh & Illustrated by Jamie Wyeth

When illness causes Sammy’s death, his human family is distraught and struggles to cope with losing their canine. They chose to remember Sammy by participating in the activities that were his favorite.

Written by Erin Frankel & Illustrated by Aboo Yang

“Remembering Barkley” tells the story of Bear and his human counterpart, Jacob, as they navigate the loss of their friend Barkley. At first, Bear and Jacob can’t bring themselves to participate in the activities that Barkley loved to do. Eventually, the two learn how to manage their sadness by leaning on each other and remembering Barkley.

Written & Illustrated by Cynthia Ryfant

“Dog Heaven” offers and explores a comforting, imaginative, and playful idea of what our pets may experience in their afterlife. Ryfant’s storytelling and illustrations allow readers, young and old, to be whisked away and dream of what their pup may be up to in dog heaven.
If you’re going through a challenging time, don’t forget to be patient. Coming to terms with the loss of a pet differs for everyone and can take weeks, months, or even years. These books will hopefully help to make this challenging time a little simpler for your child.
Saying “goodbye” to our beloved pets is something that no dog owner looks forward to. It is often the most challenging part of homing furry family members. This tragedy becomes more complex when our children have to face these issues and upsetting themes. The best way to help a child cope with losing a pet is to offer the support they need. You can achieve this with different strategies. It always helps to be open and honest with our children about what you all are going through. Explain your feelings and express vulnerability about the loss of your pet. This will allow your child to do the same.
You may consider holding a memorial for your pet. This doesn’t have to be extreme. Designate a time and place for you and your family to grieve the loss of your pup. Another great way to introduce topics related to a pet’s death is by exploring children’s books on the subject. These books can be relatable and explain what is going on in a gentle way to comfort your child. We’ve compiled a list of five children’s books that will help your family cope with losing such an important part of your family.

Written by Corinne Demas & Illustrated by Ard Holt
“Saying Goodbye to Lulu” follows a young girl’s process as she copes with losing her best friend, Lulu. The two do everything together, and when Lulu grows old, the little girl realizes they will not get to play together forever. Although she struggles with losing her best friend, the little girl learns that Lulu will forever live on in her memory.

Written & Illustrated by Adrian Raeside

This children’s book tells the story of Rick, a seven-year-old, and his best friend, Koko, as they grow up together. Rick must face Koko’s declining health as the furry friend ages but soon learns what beautiful things await Koko in his very own pet paradise.

Written by Barbra Walsh & Illustrated by Jamie Wyeth

When illness causes Sammy’s death, his human family is distraught and struggles to cope with losing their canine. They chose to remember Sammy by participating in the activities that were his favorite.

Written by Erin Frankel & Illustrated by Aboo Yang

“Remembering Barkley” tells the story of Bear and his human counterpart, Jacob, as they navigate the loss of their friend Barkley. At first, Bear and Jacob can’t bring themselves to participate in the activities that Barkley loved to do. Eventually, the two learn how to manage their sadness by leaning on each other and remembering Barkley.

Written & Illustrated by Cynthia Ryfant

“Dog Heaven” offers and explores a comforting, imaginative, and playful idea of what our pets may experience in their afterlife. Ryfant’s storytelling and illustrations allow readers, young and old, to be whisked away and dream of what their pup may be up to in dog heaven.
If you’re going through a challenging time, don’t forget to be patient. Coming to terms with the loss of a pet differs for everyone and can take weeks, months, or even years. These books will hopefully help to make this challenging time a little simpler for your child.

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Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal — Dog Training in Modesto, CA

Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal is a dog training business in Modesto, California offering board and train, private lessons, and group classes, working from a dedicated training facility. They accept aggression and reactivity cases.

Modesto, CA • Training facility • 4.8 ★ (279 Google reviews)

Verified listing

Last reviewed: Sep 5, 2026

Transparency Score

26 / 100

Minimal information

How clearly this listing publishes the details owners need. See our methodology.

Price transparency
0%
Method transparency
35%
Program clarity
63%

About Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal

Based on what the business publishes about itself

Adam Jorgenson, who owns this Sit Means Sit franchise with Elora Jorgenson, came to dog training through an unusual path. According to their site, he played professional baseball with the Colorado Rockies before turning to training after the Sit Means Sit method resolved his own dog's behavior issues.

The business operates from a facility in Modesto while also offering mobile training throughout the South Bay and East Bay regions. Their site describes staff as certified trainers, though specific credentials aren't detailed. Programs span board-and-train stays (two or three weeks), group classes, and private lessons. They state they work with dogs of any age or breed, including those with aggression, anxiety, or reactivity issues.

Their board-and-train packages include five private lessons plus what they describe as lifetime access to group classes. The site makes a guarantee claim, 100% money-back before training begins, with "guaranteed results", which prospective clients may want to discuss in detail before enrolling. They also note that programs can be customized to fit different budgets. While the website content is relatively thin on methodology specifics, it positions the training around intensive, repetitive drills designed to build obedience even in high-distraction environments.

What dog training programs does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal offer?

Board and train programs come in two formats: traditional stays of 2 or 3 weeks, or a Tuesday–Saturday schedule that returns dogs home on weekends. Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal also runs group classes and private lessons, all focused on obedience and socialization. Handoff sessions are included with the board and train options.

Traditional Board & Train — 2 Week

Price not published.

Duration: 2 weeks

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Tuesday – Saturday Board & Train — 2 Week

Price not published.

Requirements: This option gives you weekends with your pup as you gear up for the next training session.

Duration: 2 weeks

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Traditional Board & Train — 3 Week

Price not published.

Duration: 3 weeks

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Tuesday – Saturday Board & Train — 3 Week

Price not published.

Requirements: This option gives you weekends with your pup as you gear up for the next training session.

Duration: 3 weeks

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Private Lessons

Price not published.

Focus: Basic obedience

Group Classes

Price not published.

This program brings dogs together in a controlled group setting to practice obedience while surrounded by other dogs and distractions. It uses specific, repetitive drills along with games to build lasting obedience skills, and is included with the business's lifetime programs.

Dogs practice commands alongside other dogs in a group setting with trainer-led drills and games.

Best for: Dogs that have completed one-on-one training and need ongoing socialization and distraction-proofing.

Focus: Socialization, Basic obedience

How much does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal cost?

Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal does not publish program pricing online. Contact them directly or request a quote through Barklen for current rates.

Board and Train pricing

Board and Train pricing at Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal in Modesto, CA
ProgramPriceLength
Traditional Board & Train — 2 WeekNot published2 weeks
Tuesday – Saturday Board & Train — 2 WeekNot published2 weeks
Traditional Board & Train — 3 WeekNot published3 weeks
Tuesday – Saturday Board & Train — 3 WeekNot published3 weeks

Private Lessons pricing

Private Lessons pricing at Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal in Modesto, CA
ProgramPriceLength
Private LessonsNot publishedNot stated

Group Classes pricing

Group Classes pricing at Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal in Modesto, CA
ProgramPriceLength
Group ClassesNot publishedNot stated

Consultations and evaluations

  • Free Phone Evaluation: Free

What training methods does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal use?

The site uses general language about their training approach without naming specific tools or techniques. They do indicate they accept dogs with aggression issues.

Public materials reviewed by Barklen do not specify which training tools are used.

Who runs Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal?

As described in the business's own materials

Adam Jorgenson, Owner/Trainer

According to their site, former professional baseball player with the Colorado Rockies (MLB) who got into dog training after the Sit Means Sit method successfully resolved his own dog's behavior issues.

Elora Jorgenson, Owner/Trainer

Marcos, Trainer

Selena, Facility Manager/Trainer

Where does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal offer dog training?

Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal operates from a dedicated training facility in Modesto, CA, offering board and train stays at their facility, private lessons, and group classes.

Their site says they serve dog owners throughout Northern California (Modesto, South Bay, East Bay) with dogs of any age, breed, or behavioral issue, from basic obedience to more serious problems like aggression and anxiety.

Operates a physical training facility in Modesto, CA, plus mobile/in-home training service areas covering the South Bay and East Bay regions.

The Campus Way facility in Modesto doesn't publish details about parking availability or accessibility features.

How does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal compare with other Modesto dog trainers?

Barklen analysis

Barklen analysis based on 4 published Modesto listings (8 with published pricing). These comparisons are computed by Barklen, not claims made by Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal.

Price: Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal does not publish pricing for the program types where Modesto has enough published prices to compare (group classes).

Reviews: 4.8★ from 279 Google reviews, among 4 published Modesto programs.

Transparency: 26 out of 100 (minimal information), with 0% price transparency and 63% program clarity. 1 of 4 Modesto listings show certifications; this business does not list any.

Published prices at Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal compared with Modesto ranges
Program typeSit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCalModesto rangeBarklen read
Group ClassesNot published$180–$246 across 5 Modesto programsNo published price to compare

What should you ask Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal before booking?

Generated from what their public materials leave open

  • They don't publish pricing. Ask what a board and train stay costs and exactly what is included.
  • Ask which certifications their trainers hold and who issued them.
  • Ask for proof of liability insurance.
  • Their site describes their approach in general terms. Ask which specific methods and tools they use.
  • Ask whether you can visit your dog during a board and train stay.
  • Ask if anyone is on-site overnight.
  • Ask how many dogs each trainer handles at once.
  • Ask exactly what their guarantee covers; no trainer can guarantee behavior.

Location and hours

216 Campus Way, Modesto, CA

Monday – Wednesday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday – Sunday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

How Barklen reviewed this listing

Barklen reviewed Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal against the business's public materials and published this listing. That is not a check of licenses, insurance, or certifications. See our methodology for what a verified listing does and does not mean.

Details the public materials do not address (owner visits during programs, overnight staffing, insurance, certifications, dogs per trainer, years in business, and others) are turned into the questions above rather than filled in.

Last reviewed by Barklen: Sep 5, 2026

What Barklen could verify

Programs listed
6 programs (board and train, private lessons, group classes)
Published pricing
None published
Training method
Method unclear
Aggression and reactivity cases
Accepts aggression cases
Facility
Training facility
Progress updates
Occasional updates
Guarantee
Advertises guaranteed results
Booking
Contact form

Contact Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal or request a quote

Contact Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal directly by phone or through their website, or request a quote through Barklen and we will pass it along.

+1 209-247-7551Website

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