Repairing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief: 3 Phases of Healing after Losing Your Best Friend

by C. Jeffrey

When you lose a pet, you lose a family member. It takes a piece of your heart you cannot get back.A pet is not just a dog or a a pet is your companion, your best friend.

They loved you unconditionally. They gave your life structure, activity, and joy.

But they were taken away (always too soon) and it turned your whole world upside down.

Experiencing this type of loss can feel incredibly isolating. That is why I am here for you. Together, we will get you through this tough time, heal your grief, and help you find the peace you’re longing for.

People grieve in different ways. Some people go through several stages of grief that can span over a long time. Others move on much faster - and that is okay. Everyone grieves at their own pace.

That is why Repairing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief is so helpful.

It teaches you to understand your grief, prepares you for the journey of self-discovery, and creates space in your heart for a new companion.

It’s time to face your grief head-on and do what your pet would want you to do - go back to living with love and happiness in your heart.

The first step is always the hardest, but we can get through it together.

In Repairing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief, you will

The science behind the human-animal bond – discover what makes these relationships so powerful, and why the loss of a pet can be one of the most difficult things to endureThe many stages and types of grief explained in detail, so you can understand where you are with your grief and what your next steps should be8+ stories from grieving owners that will let you know you are not aloneHow to forgive yourself through understanding the essence of guilt and why forgiveness is crucial in the healing processWhere and how to find happiness - heal your wounds and cultivate a feeling of peace in your heartHow to help your children and other pets by recognizing their interpretation of the loss and guiding them through itHow to help others who are experiencing grief – if you have helped yourself, you can help othersAnd much more.

If you are grieving your pet, this book is for you.

It does not matter which stage of the grieving process you are currently in.

Let Repairing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief be your guide on the road to recovery. It will be your map out of the darkness and will ensure you never have to face your pain alone.

If you are ready to understand and heal your grief, then scroll up and click the “Add to Cart” button right now.

Genres: Nonfiction, Animals, Self Help, Grief, Death

192 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2022

Reviews

[Chelsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful book on this topic 🥺 helped me not feel quite so crazy in the aftermath of losing Chase. Chase was 11 years old and was taken away too early by cancer. He fought very hard for us for 9 months. He was the most loving and kind soul. He was so calm and sweet. He would take anything you threw at him and just loved being with us. Where Lexi is our sassy, spunky girl, Chase was our Eeyore. Always quiet and sometimes a little somber. He had “puppy dog eyes” down pat. We loved him every minute of every day of the five years we had with him and I’ll miss him forever ❤️🥲🌈🪽🐾

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly helpful as I trudge through these muddy waters that grief has created. I miss my dog so much it's as if no time has passed since she left this world, and the void has taken over. This book is full of ways to help. Grief does in fact ruin your health. This gave suggestions on how to heal yourself. Prepare for the waves of tears because it covers it all. I listened on Audible so I could get the guided meditation but downloaded the Kindle version to highlight ways to help. The audio version allowed me to get through it in one night because I didn't have to fight to see the pages through my tears. Highly recommend for anyone still grieving or fir anyone who is about to. Raw and Real. Compassionate and Understanding. This may just be what I needed to help me save my life.

[Mihaela C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dealing with the grief of losing a furry friend can be an incredibly challenging and painful experience.

I wouldn’t have imagined that the last book I read to complete my goal for this year would be exactly in this field. It’s one of the good books to read about pet loss and grief.

[Misty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Preparing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief was a very good book and had lots to offer in the way of tangible things to do to help with grief. It described the severity of loosing a pet and the tremendous toll it can take on the pet owners. This book is a lovely “self help” guide to grieving your pet in all situations, including missing pets that you don’t get the chance to say goodbye to or preparing yourself for having to euthanize your pet.

[Ashlie Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.8/5: This book is something when you need it. It’s well-written, thought bit repetitive. It is a solid choice for folks working through this pain, though I would not say it has anything particularly insightful or novel to share.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book if you’re at the beginning of pet grief or know it’s coming. It walks you through EVERYTHING and helps you feel less alone

[ML Read · Rating 1 out of 5]

After the heart-wrenching loss of my cherished 11-year-old dog, I found myself navigating a labyrinth of profound sadness and overwhelming grief. In those dark moments, I yearned for resources that could provide not only understanding but also guidance as I processed the unique and intense emotions that accompany such a loss. In my search for solace, I came across this book that had garnered several positive reviews, which led me to believe it might offer the support I desperately needed. Unfortunately, I quickly discovered that the book did not meet my expectations and ultimately fell short in substance and depth.

The author's insights were superficial, akin to the kind of general advice one might come across in casual articles online. I was particularly troubled by the author’s apparent lack of formal training in the mental health field, which raised significant concerns regarding the credibility of the information she provided. Her assertion that healing occurs in “3 phases” struck me as reductive and misleading, as it oversimplified the multifaceted nature of grief. The mourning process is often nonlinear and deeply personal, and such a statement seemed to dismiss the rich emotional struggles that individual pet parents experience over time.

Furthermore, I found it challenging to connect with the author’s analogy that equated the loss of a pet rat with that of a dog. This comparison seemed misguided and fundamentally flawed, as the emotional bonds we forge with different animals can vary dramatically. The loss of a dog often invokes a unique and powerful blend of love, companionship, and loyalty that cannot be casually likened to the loss of a rodent. Additionally, several of her anecdotes felt exaggerated or unconvincing, which only deepened my grief rather than alleviated it. Instead of resonating with my pain, they felt more like unrelatable stories that contrasted sharply with the raw, genuine emotions I was grappling with after my loss.

If you are looking for a basic/layperson's overview of concepts like the "pet effect"—which describes the positive influence pets can have in our lives—or the stages of loss proposed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, this book may offer some elementary insights. However, the book was largely unsatisfactory for someone like me, seeking a deeper understanding of the complex and often isolating sorrow that accompanies the loss of a beloved pet. It seemed to trivialize the grief experiences of pet parents, offering little more than outdated clichés. In the end, I found it lacking in fresh perspectives and valuable advice, and I cannot, in good conscience, recommend it to others who may be searching for meaningful support during their times of loss.

[Rose · Rating 1 out of 5]

Last year, I lost my soul pup and found enormous help with a couple of other pet loss books, and one in particular, but I wanted to see if this one offered anything different or unique since it has a lot of good reviews.

To say I was disappointed is an understatement. The most glaring issue is the author’s apparent lack of relevant credentials or expertise in grief counseling or psychology. Rather than drawing on clinical experience or professional training, the author—who identifies as a "Reiki Master" rather than a mental health professional—makes broad and unsupported claims based on her own experience. The stories sounded fake and just made me sadder. The book reads like a generic compilation of information, repeating the same points rather than providing meaningful insight into the unique struggles of pet loss or actionable guidance for healing. In fact, the writing style and repetitive content made me question whether this book was partially or entirely AI-generated, as it lacks the depth, nuance, and personal touch typically found in works by human authors. The assertion that pet loss grief can be resolved in “3 Phases” is not only overly simplistic but also demonstrates a lack of understanding of the subject and a lack of respect for readers’ experiences. The complexity of grieving a beloved pet deserves to be addressed by someone with real qualifications, and this book falls far short compared to others on the topic.

Given all these concerns, I cannot recommend this book to anyone seeking genuine support or professional guidance after the loss of a pet. A book on such a sensitive and personal topic should offer comfort, evidence-based advice, and insights grounded in both real expertise and personal experience. Unfortunately, this book delivers none of those things—it relies on generalizations, lacks credible sources, and ultimately risks minimizing the profound pain of pet loss. Readers would be far better served turning to resources written by mental health professionals or authors with actual experience in grief counseling, who can provide the understanding, compassion, and practical support needed during such a difficult time.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Repairing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief: 3 Phases of Healing after Losing Your Best Friend" is an insightful and invaluable book to have during a challenging and sentimental time.

As a pet parent, I always knew there would come a day when I would have to say goodbye to my beloved dog. I thought about it subconsciously, but until her passing actually occurred, I wasn't prepared for the immense sense of loss. Not only did I lose my companion - I lost my baby, partner, friend, and emotional support animal. On top of that, I lost a huge part of myself, and while I received messages of sympathy, it felt as though no one had any idea about the depths of my pain.

Enter the author C. Jeffrey. Her message was comforting and so personal that I thought she was speaking directly to me. I wasn't alone in my thoughts or emotions. While dealing with incredibly delicate topics, she provided reassuring resources and tools to digest and use. Her book covered three main areas - surviving, understanding and healing - and I found it to be a huge blessing in my own personal journey.

This book helps to guide you through the darkness of grief, recognize your mental state, and recover from a difficult and traumatizing time in your life. While you will never forget what C. Jeffrey refers to as her "heart dog," maybe you can find room in your heart to honor their memory and, when you're ready, welcome another member into your family.

[Jay P. · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm not clear what the credentials of this author is to be handing out advice of a psychological nature, but the only thing that is listed on her bio is that she is a "healer" and a "reiki master" and the contents of this book confirms this. I did not find anything new or original in this book and there is nothing in this book that you cannot find online and/or from real experts in the field; it reads like a copy and paste of others' pet loss information. There is no information about how and why the loss of a pet is different, and for some, more difficult then the loss of a human and she uses antiquated models of grief that are not really applicable. The book does not flow well and seems to jump from one topic to another with too much emphasis on her own experience. As a mental health professional, I found her discussion on complex/complicated grief to be very short and grossly misinformed and not at all in alignment with current DSM criteria. I found myself feeling more sad and despondent after reading this book and do not align with her lay person's advice for healing from the loss of a pet.

[Stone T. · Rating 1 out of 5]

Terrible book! I had high hopes for this book after the very sudden and tragic death of my dog. I should have looked at the author's credentials before purchasing this. I am struggling with complicated grief and PTSD as a result of my loss, and this book oversimplifies the grieving process of pet loss. The Author is not a psychologist or mental health professional and, quite frankly, is handing out harmful advice and information. I found the author's over-focus on her experience made my grief worse, and the supposed "stories" were very triggering and poorly written. I have since found a book on pet loss written by a clinical psychologist and researcher with decades of experience, which has been very helpful. If you want a book on pet loss written by a layperson with poor writing style and misinformation, this might be the book for you. If you are looking for a professionally written and executed book on pet loss, I recommend you look elsewhere.

[Maryanne · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is poorly written and fails to deliver the depth and expertise one would anticipate from an author dispensing psychological advice regarding grief associated with the loss of a beloved pet. The author suggests that the complex and often tumultuous healing process associated with pet loss can be neatly categorized into three simple phases. I found this assertion not only unhelpful but also somewhat dismissive; it seemed to trivialize the depth of my emotions and ultimately intensified my feelings of grief. Instead of providing the comforting guidance I sought, the book left me feeling more isolated and misunderstood in my journey through loss, exacerbating my struggles rather than alleviating them. It felt like a missed opportunity for genuine connection and support during an incredibly difficult time. Luckily, I found other helpful books on the topic written by professionals in the field.

[Mandi Hidalgo · Rating 4 out of 5]

After losing both of my kitty girls within a span of eight months, I have been living in a world of grief like I have never gone through before in my life. I've been desperate for ANY reprieve from this pain, and understanding the pain helps me to process it to lower levels of intensity and helps me heal. 

This book was a really great way to start that journey of healing. It's informative and helpful. If I had any complaints, it would be that the chapters could be shorter because in my grief-stricken mind, it's hard to process a lot of information at a time, and I found myself having to reread things a lot because my attention span has been shot. Shorter chapters are beneficial while grieving. But everything in the book is laid out beautifully and the conclusion chapter is most helpful in recapping what was covered.

Overall, a great book.

[Angela (LilyReads222) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book after having to put to sleep my 19 year old soul-mate kitty. I was overwhelmed with so many feelings that I could have done more, been a better pet parent, spent more time with her, that I failed her by not saving her, and all sorts of other damaging thoughts. This book helped me recognize that a lot of what I am feeling is normal for grief and that the additional feelings of guilt are to be expected, and how to work through them. So many parts of this book I could resonate with and I’ve highlighted and bookmarked quite a few areas so I can come back to them. Reading the stories from other pet parents at the end also helped me in recognizing I did the best I could for her. Thank you for this book, it has helped me through one of the most difficult times of my life.

[Joseph Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pet Grief and Healing

One of the standout features of the book is its ability to validate the deep pain that comes with losing a pet, which many people struggle to express or understand. The author uses real-life anecdotes and case studies to illustrate the various ways pet loss can impact individuals, making the text relatable and reassuring.

In addition to offering emotional support, the book provides practical tools for coping, including exercises for processing grief, suggestions for honoring a pet's memory, and strategies for finding comfort and support. The chapter on creating a personal memorial is particularly moving and can help readers channel their grief into something positive.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

So helpful

Almost a month ago my sweet 3 year old kitty died suddenly from a seizure. My grief is still raw but I realized that I needed to find help quickly because the sister she left behind is still looking for her.
This book helped me from the very first page. The chapter on getting a new pet unexpectedly helped a lot because my lone kitty is now in the learning process of becoming an only cat. Also
the stories at the end are touching and encouraging. If you are grieving please read this book. Yes, you will cry but you will also feel understood and that is very soothing. Thank you C.Jeffrey

[Brittani with an “i” Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short & sweet but highly on point read. I felt like I was in a therapy session without even being in one, only the therapist was someone who could directly empathize what I was going through. This book really helped me understand that not only was my pain understandable & normal, but that it made sense WHY. Everything from relatability , to breathing exercises , to an explanation of how the passing of a pet cuts a little deeper - this author does a great job. I will be giving this book to my therapist to keep in her library for anyone of her clients that loses or is about to lose a pet.

[Glenn and Michelle Weaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Book

I found this book very helpful. I lost my yellow labrador, Dash after finding it he had spinal cancer. He was having difficulty moving his back legs and his body was listing to the left. He was around 12 years old, my husband and I figured. He was a rescue. We knew the best option was to have him put down as he was suffering.
This book helped me let go of the guilt I have for not having him euthanized sooner. I thought there was hope, but my boy was tired from fighting to stay alive, because he was doing that for me. His passing will be 1 year on June 11, 2025.

[Emilee Atkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an excellent resource for anyone going through the grieving process of losing a pet. I found it very comforting. The author is able to put into words many of the confusing and difficult feelings we have after the loss of a beloved pet. Reading this, you get the sense that the author not only genuinely cares, but can also sympathize deeply, as they have gone through the same thing. Very much recommend this to anyone grieving a pet.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful and comforting. I started this in preparation for losing my first pet as an adult, and finished it after the hard goodbye happened. Compassionate and with useful tips for how to help other pets grieve the loss as well. The guidance on how to navigate difficult responses from people who may not understand makes me feel better equipped for well-intentioned colleagues.

[Wendy Haddix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Today makes 2 weeks since my beautiful lab, Rusty Bear, passed away. It happened very suddenly. This book was a lot of help for me as I'm working through my grief. If you have lost an animal that you dearly loved I highly recommend this book. I cried during a lot of it, but that helps me to heal.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful book that truly gave me comfort as I slowly heal from the loss of my soul cat. It shed some light on my feelings and gave me ways to find peace with this new normal. I would recommend this to anyone who has lost a pet companion.

[Kerowyn Guillotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

you are not alone

You are not alone. That is the key message I felt when reading this book. It helps you understand what you aregoing through and it shares stories of others who experienced loss.

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tool for grief

After my dog I had for 17yrs past, I felt this hole in my life. I didn't expect to be feeling grief over my pet. This book explains the phases of grief, and helped me through it.

[May Morante · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you never had experience the grief of losing a love one, it’s comforting. I already knew grief but I felt understood because it explains WHY a pet loss can be so devastating and helps you to give your grief the space it deserves

[Laura W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you. ♥️

Thank you for helping me in my quest for healing from my pet loss. I lost 2 kitties this year and miss them terribly. This book shows me that there are others who struggled with this and I am not as alone as I feel.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book at the exact time I needed it most. It really helped me sort through my emotions and process the loss of my 13 year old kitty Beau.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so helpful to read after losing my heart dog. Thank you for a comforting read.

[Amanda Pometti · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great resource for those who have lost a pet.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was really helpful for me