The Therapist Poetry Podcast

Losing a beloved pet is a heart-wrenching experience, one that often goes unacknowledged in society. Kat, a person-centered counselor who specializes in pet loss counseling, shares her personal experience of grief after the passing of her cat, Charlie, and how writing a poem helped her cope.

A Heartfelt Tribute: The Poem “When Your Heart Breaks”

Kat’s poem, When Your Heart Breaks, was written a week after Charlie’s passing as a way to express her grief. The poem reflects on the pain of loss and the hope of reuniting with her pet in another life.

“When your heart breaks, a week ago I held you for the final time…,” the poem begins, capturing the deep sorrow and love that come with losing a cherished companion. Kat used the poem as a way to process her emotions and say goodbye to Charlie, hoping she understood that she was loved.

The Unique Grief of Losing a Pet

Pet loss grief often involves feelings of guilt and questions like “Did I do enough?” or “Was it too soon?” Kat explains that many pet owners face “disenfranchised grief,” where their sorrow isn’t validated by society. Comments like “Just get another one” can make grieving pet owners feel their pain is minimized. However, Kat stresses that pets are irreplaceable, and their loss is just as real as the death of any family member.

The Silent Absence of a Pet

Kat describes how Charlie’s absence left a profound emptiness in her home. She mentions how the silence and lack of familiar sounds made her realize just how deeply she missed her cat. For many pet owners, the absence is felt in every corner of their home, making the grieving process even more challenging.

Supporting Pet Loss Grief

As a counselor, Kat helps clients navigate the emotional challenges of pet loss. Her personal experience allows her to empathize deeply with those grieving. Small things, like deciding whether to keep a pet’s belongings or not, can feel overwhelming, and Kat is there to help her clients through those tough decisions.

Writing as Healing

For Kat, writing the poem gave her an outlet for her grief and helped bring closure. “It allowed me to express my feelings and communicate with Charlie, telling her she was loved,” Kat explains. Writing can be a therapeutic way to process emotions and gain clarity during times of loss.

Conclusion: Acknowledging Pet Loss Grief

Pet loss is a unique and deeply personal journey. Grieving the loss of a pet is real, and seeking support is crucial. Whether through counseling, writing, or simply talking to someone who understands, it’s important to allow yourself the time and space to grieve.

If you’re struggling with the loss of a pet, remember that your grief is valid, and support is available.