Aging Together with Love: Supporting Your Pet and Embracing the Heartfelt Farewell

Do you remember that very first moment you met your pet?
That magical, heart-stopping second when your soul whispered, This little one belongs with me.

Maybe they arrived when your heart needed mending.
Maybe they were the beginning of your pet-parent journey.
However they came into your life, the bond you formed lit a flame that continues to shine brightly today.

We wish our beloved pets could stay forever, but their physical time with us is precious and brief. As their steps slow and their faces grey, we feel that shift deep inside. The awareness of an approaching goodbye weighs heavily on our hearts.

But please remember this:
You are never alone.
And your pet’s love continues long after their body grows tired.

The bond between you and your pet is unbreakable. Every cuddle, every wag, every sweet moment together becomes part of the story you will carry for the rest of your life. Their love never leaves you and neither does their guidance.

Saying Goodbye to My Sweet Gus

Just recently, I said a heartfelt goodbye to my 17-year-old King Cavalier Spaniel, Gus. He was gentle, wise, and endlessly loving. Holding him as he crossed over was an honor and a heartbreak all at once. Gus brought so much warmth into our home, and even in his passing, he gifted us with peace, gratitude, and deep love.

As I write this, I want you to feel held, comforted, and supported. If you are preparing to say farewell to your beloved companion, I understand the emotions, the fears, and the tenderness of this sacred time. My intention is to walk beside you through this journey and offer what has helped me—and so many families—find comfort.

Speak from the Heart

Talk to your pet.
Share your memories, express your gratitude, tell them everything.

So many people later say, “I wish I had told them more.”
You still can. Your pet understands your heart... always.

Even after they cross, they still hear you. Love is the language of the soul, and your messages continue to travel straight to theirs.

Capture the Memories

Take photos.
Record their voice.
Save their little quirks.

These become treasures.

For me, I cherish videos of Gus “chatting” with us and the recordings of Willy’s iconic snore, the same snore that made children at Sick Kids Hospital burst into laughter. Those sounds bring healing on days when my heart feels tender.

Supporting Your Children Through Pet Loss

If you have children, gently invite them into the process. Explain that their furry friend is aging or ill and will soon find peace in pet heaven.

Answer their questions honestly and with love.

Let them decide whether they wish to be present during the farewell. Know there is no right or wrong. Pets teach children compassion, empathy, and strength in ways nothing else can.

Treasure Every Second

When your pet is nearing the end of their journey, slow everything down.
Love them deeply in the ways they enjoy most.

Serve them their favorite meal.
Snuggle a little longer.
Sit outside together.
Talk to them softly.

These simple moments become precious memories you will forever hold in your heart.

Preparing for the Final Goodbye

Before the time comes, it can be helpful to gently think through:

• Will the farewell happen at home or at the vet’s office?

• Do you have emergency contacts easily accessible?

• Should your other pets be present, or comforted elsewhere?

• What aftercare choices feel right for you; cremation, burial, or keepsakes?

When Gus crossed, his ashes returned to us in four days. We also received paw-print charms and keepsakes; little pieces of him that stay close to our hearts.

These decisions are easier to make before your emotions overwhelm you. Preparing lovingly is an act of compassion for yourself and your pet.

Keepsakes & Comfort

Some families choose to keep a lock of fur, create memorial ornaments, or keep collars, tags, or favorite blankets. I have a special drawer by my desk holding the collars of Spot, Rocky, Molly, Willy, and now Gus. These small reminders bring deep comfort.

Play soothing music during their transition. In our home, meditation music is a nightly tradition, so when Gus crossed, I played our special bedtime track. It filled the room with peace.

Understanding Grief

Grief is not a straight line. It comes in waves, and every feeling is valid.

The stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance; may appear in any order. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means learning to carry your love in a new way.

You are not alone.
Your feelings matter.
And your pet’s love continues on.

Create a Place of Remembrance

A memorial space can bring comfort and connection. It might be:

• a garden stone

• a rose bush

• a photo frame

• a favorite toy

• a candle

• a special corner in your home

In my yard, Rocky has a cement fire hydrant, and Molly has a beautiful rose bush. These places bring me peace and a sense of closeness, even years later.

The Spiritual Journey of Pets Crossing Over

As someone who has crossed over twice and reunited with my own pets, I deeply understand the journey our beloved companions make as they leave this physical world. This perspective allows me to support families with clarity, compassion, and spiritual connection.

I am honored to help you:

✨ understand the signs
✨ communicate with your pet
✨ feel their love and reassurance
✨ receive healing for both you and your pet
✨ navigate the transition with peace and grace

You do not have to walk this tender path alone.

To explore my services:
👉 https://asksuelondon.com

With love, compassion, and heartfelt blessings,
Sue London
Award-Winning Hospice Pet Doula • Reiki Master Teacher
Animal Communicator • Author • Speaker • Healer

About Sue London

Sue London is an award-winning Hospice Pet Doula, Reiki Master/ Teacher, Animal Communicator, author, speaker, and creator of healing music for people and pets. Having crossed over twice and reunited with her own animals, Sue brings a rare level of compassion, spiritual insight, and comfort to every family she supports. Through her books, music, speaking engagements, and healing services, she helps people and pets feel supported, connected, and embraced with love.