Natalie Segall, M.A.
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PET LOSS

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The loss of a beloved companion can be one of the most painful and emotionally devastating experiences a person endures. Given the profound bond many of us share with our devoted friends, it is entirely natural to experience deep grief, sadness, loneliness, heartbreak, and even despair when this beautiful source of unconditional love is gone.
For many people, a cherished creature companion is not “just a dog” or “just a cat.” They are our truest confidants, loyal family members, and constant anchors of silent, unwavering devotion. They often provide comfort, routine, emotional stability, affection, protection, purpose, and lifelong companionship during some of life’s most difficult moments. When that shared daily presence is broken, the loss can leave an enormous emotional void.
Unfortunately, people grieving the death of their devoted friend are sometimes made to feel that their grief is excessive, irrational, or somehow less legitimate than grief for a human being. This can lead to feelings of embarrassment, isolation, shame, or emotional suppression. You should never feel guilty or ashamed for grieving the loss of your furry family member. Love, attachment, and grief are deeply personal experiences, and the shared bond of friendship you held with a loyal companion is very real.

The intensity of grief following the loss of this deep connection may be influenced by many factors, including:
  • The profound depth of your mutual bond of love and devotion
  • Your stage of life and personal circumstances
  • Whether you lived alone or relied heavily on your companion for constant friendship
  • The age, journey, and health of your beloved friend
  • Sudden illness, traumatic death, or heartbreaking euthanasia decisions
  • Feelings of guilt surrounding medical treatment or end-of-life choices
  • The loss of a dedicated service partner, therapy companion, emotional support guide, or devoted working ally
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For some individuals — especially seniors, people living alone, children, or those already coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, or previous losses — the death of a lifelong companion can trigger profound grief, loneliness, helplessness, and emotional disorientation.
Having experienced the deaths of my own beloved creature companions over the years, I understand firsthand how painful and life-altering the loss of that pure, unconditional love can be. I have also provided support and counselling to many grieving individuals struggling to cope with sorrow, guilt, anger, loneliness, or overwhelming sadness after the loss of a deeply valued friend.
I offer a warm, empathetic, confidential, safe, and non-judgmental space where your grief will be taken seriously and treated with compassion and respect. Together, we can work toward understanding your grief, expressing difficult emotions, developing healthy coping strategies, honouring the beautiful memory of your shared devotion, and gradually finding a path toward healing.

PHONE NATALIE
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Request an Email
or Phone Call from Natalie

If you find it difficult to put your feelings into words right now, you don’t have to. Please share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
You’re welcome to call me directly at 514-222-9668, or use the form below to request an email or phone call.
I personally review every message and will respond within 24 hours. Whatever you choose to share will be treated with care, respect, and complete confidentiality.

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"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves."
— Viktor E. Frankl

Psychiatrist, Holocaust survivor,
and author of
Man's Search for Meaning