The Beginning Chance's Spot was created in the fall of 1998 as a personal tribute to a beloved English Setter, Chance. In February of 1998 Chance was diagnosed with lymphosarcoma and on June 28 he died. As the website grew, Chance's Spot, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that assists grieving pet owners, was founded. At Chance's Spot, we believe that pets are an important and engaging member of the family whose loss results in the same grieving process as would losing anyone close to us. We understand that the feelings generated when a pet dies are real and deserve the same respect as if it were any other family member. Our mission is to advance this notion to the general public and to support an increase in the respect and reverence that is given to the topic of pet loss. Through education, support and information, Chance's Spot assists the public in understanding that the grief suffered when a dearly loved pet is lost is a heartfelt example of how genuine the human - animal bond can be. How We Help Chance's Spot provides an online support group, publications on pet loss, hotline numbers, referrals and an online tributes page where pet caregivers can post tributes to their departed pets. Locally, Chance's Spot provides educational presentations on the topic of pet loss to pet caregivers, pet care professionals and rescue and shelter workers. Area shelters, veterinarians and rescue groups also receive support and information about compassion fatigue: the stress resulting from caring for and helping traumatized animals on a daily basis. Honoring the Animals Our yearly fundraiser, Honoring the Animals Candlelight Vigil, allows people the opportunity to remember their beloved animal companion who has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. This candlelight vigil and animal blessing is is held on National Pet Memorial Day, which is always the second Sunday in September. Although a local event, people from all over the world can submit their pet's name for inclusion in the memorial program book. Programs are mailed to countries such as Australia, Puerto Rico, and Germany.