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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

Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal is a dog training business in Modesto, California offering Board and Train, Group Classes, and Private Lessons.

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

Last verified: 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 this program

What they say about themselves

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.

Getting started

Consultations and evaluations before you commit to a program.

Free Phone Evaluation — Free

Focus: Basic obedience

What does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal charge for board and train?

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.

What board & train costs in Modesto

We don't have enough published local pricing yet. Ask for a written quote that covers duration, inclusions, and follow-up.

Board and Train

Traditional Board & Train — 2 Week

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Duration: 2 weeks

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Traditional Board & Train — 3 Week

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Duration: 3 weeks

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Tuesday – Saturday Board & Train — 2 Week

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

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Duration: 2 weeks

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

Tuesday – Saturday Board & Train — 3 Week

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

Focus: Basic obedience, Socialization

Duration: 3 weeks

Includes: Owner handoff sessions

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

Private Lessons

Private Lessons

Focus: Basic obedience

Private Lessons pricing at Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal in Modesto, CA
ProgramPriceDuration
Private LessonsNot published—

Group Classes

Group Classes

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

Group Classes in Modesto typically runs $180–$246 across 5 programs that do publish pricing. Ask this trainer for a written quote before comparing.

Group Classes pricing at Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal in Modesto, CA
ProgramPriceDuration
Group ClassesNot published—

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.

Method: Method unclear

Their website describes their approach in general terms without specifying which methods or tools they use.

How do we verify Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal?

Certifications: Not specified on their website

Verification still pending or not yet requested. See our methodology for what verification does and does not mean.

Trust & facility details

Training takes place at a dedicated facility, and they send occasional video updates during board and train stays. The site claims guaranteed results, though specific terms aren't detailed. Whether owners can visit or staff remains overnight isn't addressed.

Facility: Training facility

Owner visits: not specified on their website.

Video updates: Occasional updates

Overnight staffing: not specified on their website.

Insurance: not specified on their website.

Guarantee: Advertises guaranteed results

Waitlist: not specified on their website.

Dogs per trainer: not specified on their website.

Booking: Contact form

How does Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal compare in Modesto?

Price: Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal does not publish board & train pricing. Across Modesto, 8 programs publish prices from about $144 to $322.

Reviews: Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal shows 4.8★ from 279 Google reviews among 4 published Modesto programs.

Transparency: This listing scores 26 out of 100 (price 0%, program clarity 63%). 1 of 4 Modesto listings show certifications; this business does not list certifications.

What to ask Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal

  • They don't publish pricing — ask what a three-week board and train costs and exactly what's included.
  • Ask which certifications their trainers hold and who issued them.
  • Ask for proof of liability insurance.
  • Ask how many dogs each trainer handles at once.
  • Their site describes their approach in general terms — ask which specific methods and tools they use.

Location & hours

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

216 Campus Way, Modesto, CA

Friday: 9AM-5PM

Monday: 9AM-5PM

Sunday: 9AM-5PM

Tuesday: 9AM-5PM

Saturday: 9AM-5PM

Thursday: 9AM-7PM

Wednesday: 9AM-5PM

Contact / request a quote

Reach out directly or send a quote request through Sit Means Sit Dog Training - NorCal.

+1 209-247-7551Website

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