What do you do when the worst happens and your pet crosses the Rainbow Bridge?
For many pet parents, navigating the grief and logistics of pet aftercare is overwhelming, especially if they’ve never faced it before.

In this episode, I’m joined by Gia Kondakor, director of Pet Loss Services at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, to talk about what happens after a pet dies and the choices you have to honor them with care and dignity.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• The differences between individual, partition, and communal cremation
• How memorial services can provide healing and closure
• Unique ways to honor your pet’s memory, from keepsake jewelry to creative art

If you’ve ever faced or are preparing for losing a beloved pet, this episode will help you make informed, compassionate choices you can feel good about.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Gia Kondakor – McAlister-Smith Pet Loss Services

P.S. You may hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk during this episode. That was our former name before we embraced the fur, mess, and mayhem. Same show, same mission—just a name that fits better now.

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Pet parenting is tough, but this show delivers expert pet advice and solutions for real pet parenting struggles. Each week, we share pet care on a budget tips and pet saving hacks to help you stretch every dollar, whether it’s pet cost hacks for vet bills and pet food, or simple ways to make training and daily care easier. You’ll get dog training and behavior advice, cat care insights, and practical pet advice for everything from litter box issues to keeping multi-pet homes peaceful. We cover pet budgeting, managing pet behavior, stress-free vet visits, and home cleaning that actually works with pets. Follow for the support you need to stop chasing your tail and start enjoying life with pets.

Contact: [email protected] ©Ⓟ 2025 Amy Castro