We explore a topic often overlooked—coping with pet loss. Our guest, Dr. Katie Lawlor, a psychologist based in San Francisco, shares her personal and professional experiences with the profound grief that comes with the death of a beloved animal companion.

Dr. Lawlor discusses how her journey through the loss of her rabbit, Gem, during the pandemic led her to create her Instagram page, petlossdoctor. She opens up about the challenges of discussing her pet's death with colleagues and how this inspired her to support others facing similar experiences.

Growing up as the introverted middle sister, Dr. Lawlor found solace in the company of animals. Her summers in Ireland, surrounded by animals, shaped her understanding of the unique bond between humans and their pets. She highlights the lack of specialised services for pet loss and stresses the importance of acknowledging and addressing this grief.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Lawlor addresses common questions about pet loss, such as coping with guilt and regret, and offers insights on navigating this difficult time. She emphasises that grief is a natural response to losing someone you love, whether they are human or animal.

Tune in to hear Dr. Lawlor's heartfelt stories and valuable advice on coping with pet loss. Learn how her work is providing comfort and support to others experiencing grief. This episode is essential listening for anyone who has ever loved and lost a pet.

You can follow Dr. Katie Lawlor on her Instagram page.

Find out more about her book; A Tribute to My Beloved Animal: A Journal to Process Grief & Loss.

Follow us on Instagram: @ashgate_hospice

Support resources: https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/resource-centre/

This episode of The Life and Death podcast was produced by Olivia Swift and it’s a Reform Radio production.