STERLING, Va. (May 15, 2026) – The Pet Loss Professionals Alliance (PLPA) will host its highly anticipated Pet Loss & Integration Short Course July 17–20, 2026, at the Emory Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. Taking place alongside ICCFA University at Emory University, registration is now open for this immersive program, which has been expanded to a full three-day educational experience, offering attendees more in-depth learning and hands-on opportunities than ever before. 

Designed specifically for pet loss professionals, this year’s enhanced program delivers meaningful education, practical strategies, and valuable connections for those serving families through pet loss. The expanded format reflects the growing demand for specialized knowledge in this evolving area of deathcare. 

“This year’s course is our most comprehensive yet,” said Lauren Blevins, CCFE, CPLP, PLPA Committee Chair. “By expanding to a full three-day program, we’re giving attendees more time to dive deeper into the real-world challenges and opportunities in pet loss services. Our goal is to equip professionals with the tools, confidence, and insight they need to better serve families while building sustainable, successful programs.” 

New for 2026, the Short Course features expanded and newly added sessions designed to address the most pressing needs in today’s pet loss profession. Highlights include: 

  • Practical Technology in Today’s Business – Pierce Dempsey, CCrE (extended session) 
  • Pet Cremation 101: Tips, Tricks, and Operational Best Practice – Larry Stuart, Jr. (extended session) 
  • Setting Your Key Performance Indicators and Behind the Scenes Best Practices for Running a Pet Business – Lauren Blevins, CCFE, CPLP 

In addition to these new offerings, the 2026 program features a dynamic lineup of industry experts and sessions covering critical topics such as artificial intelligence in pet loss services, advanced cremation operations, cemetery integration, family engagement strategies, and legal considerations. 

Attendees will also benefit from interactive learning experiences, peer networking opportunities, and engaging evening events, including Student Night and Sports Night, which are part of the larger ICCFA University experience and provide opportunities to connect with professionals and students from across the deathcare profession. 

The ICCFA Educational Foundation is sponsoring four scholarships for deserving ICCFA members, providing recipients the opportunity to attend the PLPA Pet Loss & Integration Short Course tuition-free. Scholarships cover the full cost of tuition and meals, helping make this premier educational experience more accessible to professionals across the deathcare industry. 

With the pet deathcare profession continuing to grow rapidly, the PLPA Short Course provides essential education for professionals looking to expand or enhance their pet loss offerings while maintaining compassion, professionalism, and operational excellence. 

For more information and to register, visit iccfa.com/pet-short-course. 

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Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.