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When the Pet Leaves: Processing Grief for a Companion Who Served Its Purpose | The Healing Journey
In this episode of The Healing Journey, host Alisha Rojas explores the complex and often unspoken grief that arises when a companion—whether a pet, a friend, or a partner—no longer needs your help. This is not the sharp pain of sudden loss or death, but the hollow ache of obsolescence. We discuss how to process 'utility grief,' the shame spiral of feeling ungrateful when someone you care for is healthy and happy, and the identity crisis that follows when the role of 'protector' or 'anchor' comes to an end. If you have ever felt useless after your service dog retired, your child moved out, or…
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