Willow Greenwood
Pet Loss Specialist
Before, During, and After Pet Loss
we're with you every step of the way
Animals play an important role in our lives. The deep bond we form with animals can be life-altering. Our belief is that these special friends deserve dignified, peaceful deaths, respectful after-care, and remembrances.
Unquestionably, pet parents and professionals need loving guidance before, during, and after the loss of an animal companion. Our purpose is to help you and your animal friend during their end-of-life journey.
Thoughts & Beliefs
Consider previous pet losses, your personal or religious beliefs about death, and your desire to care for your pet
Options
Review the options available to you and your animal companion, as well as an expected time frame for transition
Decisions
Based on your thoughts, feelings, and options, you will be able to make the best choices and decisions for you and your pet
Enact Plan
Up to this point, all the steps have been theoretical
Now is the time to enact the plan you have made for your beloved pet's transition
Healing After Loss
People say to let go and
move on with your life, but they don’t tell you how
We can help
You are not alone
Grieving Can be the Hardest Part
It’s inevitable. Seldom will you live longer than your pets. And if you do, that is another concern.
If you’re lucky, your animal companion lives a long, healthy life. Sadly, you are still faced with their loss and your subsequent grief.
When you lose your best friend and closest confidant, it can be absolutely devastating.
Everyone grieves the loss of a pet in different ways. No matter how, it is so important for you to feel your feelings and express your emotions.
It’s OK to cry and show outward signs of grief for your pet. The human and animal bond is very strong. Many people feel the loss of a pet as deeply as the loss of a close friend or family member.
The 6 Myths About Grief
We learn how to react to loss from the time we are young. Think back to the things you might have heard or observed when you've lost a pet in the past. If you can, especially try to remember a loss from when you were a child.
What did the adults around you say about loss or death? How did the adults behave? As we grow, we follow these patterns.
Many of the coping suggestions are unhelpful or hurtful. The six listed here are the most common myths.
1. Don't Feel Bad
It is estimated that by the time a child grows into an adult, they have been told this phrase over 20,000 times. Isn't it interesting that it has never made any of us feel better? We have a range of emotions, from happy to sad, and need to be able to express them all.
2. Replace the Loss
After we hear the first myth, we often hear something like, "We'll get you a new puppy". We then learn to follow this pattern in many other areas of our life. After a breakup, a well meaning friend might advise us to jump back into the dating pool right away, instead of waiting to heal.
3. Grieve Alone
Do you remember being upset and crying as a child? If so, you may also remember being told to go to your room, until you were better. Unfortunately, this teaches us not to share our sad feelings. It leaves us feeling we are only allowed to share positive, happy feelings.
4. Time Heals All Wounds
If that were the case, we'd all be healed by now, right? We may adapt to a loss, but we are often left wishing there had been more time, or things could have been better or different.
5. Be Strong - Be Strong For Others
Many people hide their feelings—at least those that might be visible, such as tears and other displays of emotion. The problem lies in pushing away and covering up emotions connected to the death of someone important to us.
6. Keep Busy
Staying busy can keep your mind occupied. Being physically active can sometimes help you fall asleep easier. The problem is that we can't always stay busy. At some point, you will need rest. During or after an activity filled day, you will experience a moment of stillness or quiet. It is then you realize that staying busy doesn't lessen your pain. It just delays it.
My Path to Grief Recovery
I came to this work after the loss of my heart dog, Major Bunny. While seeking help from the pain, I found the Grief Recovery Institute. From the first moment, I realized I was in the right place at the right time. You may find you are too!
As I began the work, I became aware of all the grief in my life. There was so much I had never healed from or even begun to process. The Grief Recovery Institute’s research has shown that there are 40+ types of loss that can cause you to experience grief. Click here to learn more.
Testimonials
“A well meaning friend gave me a puppy after I lost my dog Morris. Morris and I had been together since I was in college, and he was my everything. I struggled to connect with the new puppy. He wasn’t my Morris. Willow helped me process the feelings of guilt of replacing Morris with a new puppy. This helped me accept my new puppy Chester, and I look forward to many years with him.”
You Don't Have to Wait Any Longer.
