The holidays. Usually a time of celebration and cheer, but when grieving the loss of a beloved pet, they can feel especially heavy. Traditions that once brought joy might now serve as painful reminders of their absence. It’s easy to feel out of sync with the world around us, as everyone else seems focused on joy and togetherness while we navigate sadness and longing. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone in these feelings. Struggling with grief during the holidays is normal, and it’s okay to feel this way.

Grieving the loss of a beloved pet can be a profoundly emotional experience. Many people find solace in different ways, but one therapeutic tool that has stood the test of time is journaling.

If you’re here, then I don’t need to explain to you the strong emotional bond between humans and their pets. The depth of our grief when we lose them can be astonishing. Our pets provide us with unconditional love, and when they are gone, they leave a significant void in our personal lives.