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Have you ever felt your heart break after losing a beloved pet? If so, you’re not alone—and your feelings are absolutely valid. This reel is from Episode 1 of my new podcast, Ella’s Podcasts, launching next week, where we address the profound and too-often misunderstood journey of pet bereavement.
In this heartfelt conversation, we explore why saying goodbye to our animal companions can be so devastating, the unique, unconditional love they provide, and how grief can ripple through our lives, sometimes surprising us in its intensity and even affecting the pets who remain. You’ll also hear deeply moving stories on how pet loss impacts daily life, and learn strategies for navigating stages of grief, memorializing your fur friends, and moving forward with compassion.
Joining me are renowned psychologist and professor Dr. Jonathan Marshall, Mary Sue—founder of Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter—and animal advocate Victoria Toy. Together, we discuss honest emotions, community support, and practical ways to honor your grief.
Quotes:
•I think it's not whether or not it's a pet or a human, it's how we attach to that thing that we've lost.
•I always tell people, you know, well, just think of it, you have given a dog a very good life, and that dog lived a very happy life.
•Grief is when you love somebody, and it's got nowhere to go.
Takeaways:
•The loss of a pet can be as profound and deeply felt as the loss of a human loved one.
•Grieving a pet is unique for everyone, and there’s no “right” timeline or process for healing.
•Support from others who understand pet loss can help ease the pain and reduce isolation.
•Creating memories and keepsakes, like photos or memory books, can provide comfort after a loss.
•Channeling the love for a lost pet into caring for other animals can be a healing next step.
Timestamps:
0:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
0:01:34 Why Pet Loss Hurts So Much
0:03:55 Stages of Grief in Pet Bereavement
0:05:50 Coping Without Social Support
0:10:39 Personal Stories of Pet Loss
0:18:22 Community and Impact of Pet Loss
0:19:45 What to Expect After Losing a Pet
0:21:16 Navigating Guilt and Euthanasia
0:30:20 Memorializing Lost Pets
0:38:05 When Is the Right Time to Get a New Pet
0:41:58 Final Thoughts and Messages

Conclusion:
This episode is for anyone who has ever loved an animal and felt the sharp sting of their absence. You don’t need to minimize your feelings or seek anyone’s permission to grieve. Your love matters, your relationship was real, and healing comes from honoring the stories and memories you shared.
I hope this episode helps you feel seen, understood, and a little less alone. If you find comfort here, please share this episode with others, visit our Facebook page to connect, or request a follow-up. Remember: the paw prints pets leave on our hearts are forever.
Links:
Ella Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@EllaPodcasts-z9v
Ella Podcast Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089
Ella Sherman’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ella-sherman/
Dr. Jonathan Marshall’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmarshallconsulting/
Victoria Toy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-toy-25a37323/

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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