Why do the holidays feel so much heavier when you’ve lost a pet, or when you know a goodbye is coming soon?
If you’re finding yourself dreading traditions, avoiding gatherings, or feeling pressure to “hold it together,” this episode is for you.
Holiday pet grief can show up in unexpected ways, especially during a first holiday without your pet or when you’re living in that anticipatory space of knowing time with your pet is limited. In this conversation, licensed clinical social worker and author Nancy Gordon helps make sense of why this season hurts more and how to move through it with compassion instead of pressure.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:
If you’re grieving a pet you’ve already lost:
• Why holidays intensify pet grief, even when you think you’re coping just fine
• How to prepare emotionally for gatherings so you’re not blindsided by questions or comments
• Ways to honor your pet without forcing traditions or “last moments” to be perfect
If you’re anticipating the loss of a pet:
• What anticipatory grief looks like and why it can quietly take over the season
• How to stay present with your pet and yourself without burning out emotionally
This episode is dedicated to Rosy, Debbie’s beloved dog, and to every pet parent navigating the holidays with a missing piece of their heart.
CONNECT WITH NANCY GORDON
Email: nancygordon7practices@gmail.com
Phone: (858) 952-0936
Petworks.com to schedule a session with Nancy: Discounted first session.
Website: growbeyondgrief.com
Instagram devoted to pet loss and grief: @nancy.gordon.global
OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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The Pet Parent Hotline covers real-world dog and cat behavior, training, pet health and nutrition, veterinary decisions, pet-care costs, aging pets, and everyday life with animals.
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