How to Get Through the Holidays When Facing Pet Loss

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 perfectIf 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 emotionallyThis 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 GORDONEmail: [email protected]: (858) 952-0936Petworks.com to schedule a session with Nancy: Discounted first session.Website: growbeyondgrief.comInstagram devoted to pet loss and grief: @nancy.gordon.global OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Listen to Nancy's first appearance on the show in 2023: "The Grief Before Goodbye: Preparing For Your Pet's Final Days"Join us in The Pet Parent Hotline Insiders group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetparenthotlineinsiders Stuck on a pet problem? Send it here.Support the showExpert Pet Advice for busy pet parents! Love the show? Leave a 5-star review so more pet parents can find us, and share this episode with someone who needs it. Follow:🌍Official Site |📱Facebook |📺YouTube | 🍏 Apple |🎵SpotifyEach week, get practical pet parenting advice and expert help for behavior issues, rising pet costs, vet visits, training, and everyday life with dogs and cats.From puppy biting and cat aggression to separation anxiety, emergency vet decisions, and saving money on pet care, this show helps you cut through the noise and find real solutions.No fluff, no guilt, just practical help so you can enjoy your pets and your life again.Contact: [email protected]©Ⓟ 2026 Amy Castro