When I first began working at Glanbrook Veterinary Services in March of 2012, I

was filled with genuine excitement to join a team that wholeheartedly loves

helping animals and the people who cherish them. What I didn’t fully realize at

the time was how profoundly those relationships would touch my heart over the

years.

For more than a decade, I have had the humbling privilege of watching countless

puppies and kittens come through our doors for their very first visits. Nervous

owners gently cradling tiny bundles of fur, hearts bursting with hope and

anticipation for a lifetime of memories with their new family members. Many of

those same pets would grow and flourish before our eyes. We celebrated every

milestone, cheered on their growth into beloved companions, and supported

their families through every step of their journey together.

Eventually, for many of them, we were also there during their final moments.

One of the greatest privileges of working in veterinary medicine is earning the

trust to be present during some of life's most joyous celebrations. But, equally

heartbreaking, is standing by during some of life’s most difficult farewells.

As veterinary professionals, we often bear the weight of our clients’ grief. We

witness tears, listen to heartfelt stories of unconditional love, and help families

make unimaginable decisions. While we do everything in our power to offer

comfort and compassion, we’re not immune to the pain ourselves. Every

goodbye reminds us just how precious the bond between people and their pets

truly is, and how deeply it touches our souls.

Over the years, I’ve had to say goodbye to four of my own beloved pets. Most

recently, I lost my cherished dog, Mia.

Mia was more than a pet—she was family. Her absence has left a hollow space

that no other can fill. Navigating my own grief while continuing to support clients

through theirs has opened my eyes to just how complex, and how deeply

personal, grief can be.

Some days, it feels nearly impossible to separate my own emotions from my

professional duties. A client's story can remind me so vividly of Mia. An

euthanasia appointment may stir up memories of my own goodbye. The weight

of sadness can feel overwhelming, especially after years of witnessing loss in this

profession.

This emotional toll is something many veterinary professionals know all too well.

Compassion fatigue is a real challenge that often goes unnoticed. Caring so

deeply for animals and their families is what brings us into this line of work, but

that same care means feeling those emotions just as profoundly.

Through my own journey of grief, I’ve learned an essential truth: we should

never carry our pain alone.

Whether you’re mourning the loss of a beloved pet or supporting someone who

is, sharing your feelings is vital. Leaning on trusted friends, family, and

colleagues can be an incredible source of healing. Sharing stories, memories,

tears, and even moments of laughter creates a support system that reminds us

we are not alone.

Grief can often make us feel isolated, but connection—genuine, heartfelt

connection—helps us slowly heal.

There is no set timeline for mourning a pet. There is no “right” way to grieve.

The love we share with our animals is uniquely ours, and honouring that love

and loss is both necessary and sacred.

Working in veterinary care has shown me countless examples of that unwavering

love. Losing Mia reminded me that I am not just a witness to that love—I am

part of it.

To everyone who has entrusted us with their pets over the years, thank you from

the bottom of my heart. Thank you for sharing your stories, your joy, and

sometimes your sorrow with us. And to those grieving the loss of a dear

companion, know that your feelings are valid, your grief is real, and you do not

have to face it alone.

The ache we feel when they leave us is a testament to how deeply they were

loved, and how profoundly they have touched our souls.