What is anticipatory grief—and how do I cope when I know goodbye is coming?

Anticipatory grief is the real, valid grief that begins before a loss. It can look like worry, guilt, or sudden waves of sadness—even on “good” days. You’re not doing it wrong; your heart is practicing for a hard moment. Here are gentle ways to cope now:

• Name what’s hard and say it out loud to someone safe.

• Make a care plan with your vet: comfort priorities, pain signs to watch, and preferred goodbye options (home/clinic, who’s present).

• Create small rituals now—daily photos, a “love list” of favorite moments, a pawprint, a special walk.

• Share clear words with kids (simple, honest, repeatable) and give them roles to help.

• Ask for support—a coached session can steady the next decisions and the first days after.

For short, compassionate videos on anticipatory grief and coping, visit Dog Ear Society on YouTube: youtube.com/@supportforthehuman.