How to Cope with Anticipatory Grief: Supporting Yourself Before Saying Goodbye to Your Dog Watching your dog grow older or face a serious illness can be one of the hardest experiences any pet owner will ever go through. Long before we have to say goodbye, many of us begin grieving the loss we know is coming and often don't realise there's a name for it. In this heartfelt episode of the Pawsitively Spoilt Podcast, Tanya shares her own journey with her beloved dog, Latte, alongside animal communicator Donna Hamer, as they explore the emotional reality of anticipatory grief. Together, they discuss why it's so common, why feelings of guilt and anxiety are completely normal, and how to navigate this difficult stage while still cherishing the precious time you have left with your dog. If you're caring for a senior dog or a pet with a terminal illness, this conversation offers practical advice, reassurance, and compassionate support to help you focus on making meaningful memories instead of living in fear of what's ahead. In this episode, we cover: What anticipatory grief is and why so many dog owners experience it The emotional signs to look out for before your dog has passed Why caring for a senior or unwell dog can feel emotionally overwhelming How to cope with guilt, anxiety and the fear of "the day" coming Practical ways to prepare emotionally without losing joy in the present Creating meaningful memories with your dog during their final chapter Advice and comfort for anyone currently walking this journey with their beloved companion About Donna Donna Hamer, known as Donna DoLittle Animal Communicator, is an Animal Communicator, Pet Psychic, Author, and Pet Grief Coach. She helps pet guardians better understand their animals by intuitively connecting with pets, both living and in spirit, and sharing their thoughts, feelings, and messages. Donna is the bestselling author of Pet Loss & Grief – From Loss to Love: A Healing Journey Through Pet Grief and is passionate about supporting people through the challenges of pet loss, grief, and end-of-life care. Her upcoming book and journal, Anticipatory Grief: Navigating End of Life with Your Pet, offers practical and compassionate support for those facing the difficult journey of saying goodbye to a beloved companion. Through her work, Donna helps people find comfort, connection, healing, and hope during every stage of their journey with their pets. For more information, visit WEBSITE: https://www.donnadolittle.com.au BOOKING LINK: https://bookme.name/donnadolittle/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/animalcommunicationwithdonna/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/donnadolittle