Why pet grief became my calling.

My name is Rebecca Marina, and for many years, much of my life's work has been devoted to helping people through emotional pain.

I've trained in many healing techniques and received profound spiritual guidance throughout my work. I've helped people through heartbreak, grief, fear, guilt, anger, trauma, and some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

But there was one kind of pain I didn't fully understand.

Not until it happened to me.

I lost my precious, lion-hearted boy, Tobias.

And I was devastated.

I didn't want to see anyone. I didn't want to talk to anyone. The grief was so deep that I finally understood something I had never completely understood before:

Pet grief is real grief. And it can break your heart.

So I began using the same skills I had spent years using to help others — this time, on myself.

Little by little, the unbearable part of the pain began to soften.

And something beautiful happened.

I discovered that feeling better didn't mean loving Tobias less. I could laugh again. I could live again. I could remember the love and joy we shared without every memory being swallowed by the pain of losing him.

And I still loved my Tobias with all my heart.

Today, within my spiritual practice, I experience Tobias as still very much a part of my life. I feel his presence and guidance as I help other grieving pet parents find their way through this particular kind of heartbreak.

Perhaps that has been one of Tobias's greatest gifts to me. His life — and my experience of his continuing spirit — helped show me where I am most deeply called to serve now.

Today, with great joy and tremendous compassion, I am focusing much of my work on helping people who are grieving their beloved animals.

Because I learned something through Tobias that I want every grieving pet parent to know:

You don't have to stop loving them to start hurting less.

The love gets to stay. And your heart is allowed to feel lighter.