Holding Space on Your Journey
Supporting and comforting families through the uniquely challenging stages of pet illness and loss.
Hi, I’m Lesley.
As a social worker and a pet parent, I am very passionate about providing support and holding space for other pet parents before, during and following their pet’s passing. My wish is for people to take this journey with their pet and do so with not only an open heart and loving care, but with a sense of confidence and knowledge that they are giving him/her the most meaningful end of life experience.
Your Guide Through Stormy Seas
When we open our hearts to a pet, the bond is profound and unbreakable - even after they pass. Toward the end of life, the intense and unique bond shared by yourself and your beloved pet who provided you with unconditional love and endless joy and comfort, may become painful and distressing.
At this time, it is natural for you to be overcome with emotions. These emotions coupled with the need to navigate your way around end of life decisions can be extremely challenging and even debilitating.
My goal is to ensure that this period of transition allows you to process your emotions and move forward with a greater sense of peace and trust. Essentially, I want to share your loss by holding space for you as you slowly move toward a place of healing.
Ultimately, I want to give pet parents the opportunity to process their grief through reflection, reminiscense, storytelling and open communication with a skilled and empathic listener.
Who Does This Counselling Help?
Pet families caring for aging or ill pets often face emotional, financial, and other challenges. When it comes to saying good-bye and even the anticipation of saying good-bye, the decision making process can be overwhelming and heartbreaking for the entire family.
I am dedicated to supporting families from the time of diagnosis, through treatment, which often includes difficult end of life decisions, as well as providing both support and skills to better cope with anticipatory/grief and loss.
I am here to provide supportive, educational and resource counselling with empathy and understanding during a very challenging time in your life. My greatest hope is that you look back at this time without regret and that your beautiful memories are what comes to heart and mind when you remember your beloved pet.
Service Packages
No two people are a like and, thus, no two people grieve the same. Depending on your unique needs, I hope to help you understand that there is NO WRONG WAY to grieve. The difficult decisions you are facing are a huge responsibility and can complicate grief.
At the heart of it all, there is a loss of a significant relationship. It is vital to absorb, process and assimilate the meaning of loss.
In Loving
Memory of Lola
Animal Rites is inspired by our beautiful and beloved Lola. She brought us nearly 11 years of love, laughter, affection, playfulness, a sense of spontaneity and complete joy. Her passing inspired me to apply my love of animals with the knowledge and understanding of the bond that exists between us and our animals as well as my social work skills to help others during this incredibly difficult time.
