Grief affects each of us differently.
None of us ever want to face the death of a beloved pet, but the reality is that this day will come for each of us, and when it does, there are options for support.
Grief can come in waves.
One day we can feel as if we are healing and the next it can hit us like a tidal wave.
Grief is simply an expression of our love for our companion animals. It is important to know that you aren’t alone.
I can help you to memorialize and celebrate your special bond. In the days after a pet’s passing, it may be hard to adjust to a new routine.
I am here to help you to navigate life after their passing.
What is a doula?
We use it to describe caregivers who provide us with non-medical support to people facing major life events such as birth and death. A birthing doula advocates for the person and the baby that is about to be born. They may provide them with physical, mental, informational, or emotional support. An end-of-life doula provides this same service to those of us facing the end-of-life process. I provide end-of-life support for the animals that we share space with.
A few of the tasks Bridging the Gap can assist with are:
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Resource Referrals
I have a network of contacts to refer clients to additional services like veterinarians, pet crematories, grief counselors, or acupuncturists.
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Planning Final Arrangements
During moments of grief, planning a pet’s final arrangements can be overwhelming. I help prepare these plans in advance, coordinating with veterinarians and pet crematories to ensure everything is in place when the time comes. Whether at home or in the office, I can help prepare a comfortable and sacred space for your final moments together.
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Being Present During the Pet’s Passing
I can be present at the time of your love’s passing if is too painful, providing comfort and ensuring they feel safe and loved. I can also be present, so you don’t have to be alone in those final moments.
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Coordinating Care:
Managing your loved one’s care can be challenging, especially when dealing with a terminal illness. I can help organize medications, appointments, and feeding schedules, ensuring nothing is overlooked. This will take some tasks off your plate allowing you to make the remainder of your time together memorable.
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Respite Care
Caring for a terminally ill companion can be exhausting. I can provide respite care, allowing you to take a break and recharge, knowing they are in compassionate hands.
Many of these same compassionate services can be offered remotely just as in-person care. Remote services can still provide a high level of care, compassion, and guidance to both you and your loved ones, no matter the distance. The emotional and spiritual support offered in these services can help bring peace to the end-of-life process, even when an in-person visit is not possible.
Remote check-ins can be arranged to offer continued guidance throughout the process. This may include assessing your animal’s condition over video calls or phone consultations, providing emotional check-ins for the guardians, and adjusting the support based on the animal’s or family’s needs as they evolve. For those who wish to hold a memorial service or ceremony but cannot do so in person, I can coordinate virtual memorials. These services can include readings, poems, visual tributes, or even virtual gatherings where your family can share stories about their life and legacy.
In the end, we want to be at peace knowing that they felt loved and that we did our best. We will begin with a consultation. We’ll discuss your specific needs and customize a care plan to fit your vision of the perfect ending.
I will hold space for you and your beloved companion, provide a listening ear and a compassionate heart, and help you navigate this journey called grief.
Article:
Unlock the Power of a Pet Doula: The Support You Didn't Know You Needed
