How to Practice Self-Compassion in Pet Loss Grief + Simple Ritual Ideas

Pet loss can feel overwhelming—especially when guilt, anger, and “what ifs” show up after difficult end-of-life decisions. In this talk, pet loss grief specialist Grant Hazell shares a compassionate, practical approach to grieving: making room for pain (instead of avoiding it), using gentle self-talk, and creating simple grief rituals that keep your bond with your pet present and meaningful.

Key takeaways:

• You are bigger than your grief. Grief is part of you, not all of you.
• Acceptance isn’t giving up—it’s acknowledging the pain and “dropping the struggle” with it.
• Self-compassion has 3 parts: acceptance, kindness, and values-based action.
• Guilt is common (especially around euthanasia) and often unearned—kindness helps soften its grip.
• Rituals help in two ways: they help you face the reality of the loss and maintain an ongoing connection.
• Rituals can be simple: talking to your pet, lighting a candle, holding a toy, visiting a shared place, or playing a meaningful song.
• Healing includes committed action: small steps aligned with your values (connection, generosity, love).