The Tails of Truth Podcast:
Tails of Truth: Grief After Pet Loss: Navigating Euthanasia, Guilt, and Goodbyes
In this deeply emotional and unfiltered episode of Tails of Truth, JoJo and Dr. Angie sit with grief in real time as JoJo shares the story of losing her soul dog, Bodhi, over New Year’s.
This conversation explores the raw truths of pet loss—anticipatory grief, guilt, anger, tenderness, and the impossible weight of deciding when it’s time to say goodbye. JoJo opens up about Bodhi’s sudden cancer diagnosis, the choice to pursue in-home euthanasia, and the heartbreak of letting go on a “good day.” Together, they talk honestly about the bargaining, self-doubt, and self-blame that so often follow euthanasia decisions—even for veterinary professionals.
Dr. Angie offers grounded veterinary insight and compassionate reassurance, reminding listeners that there is no perfect moment, no “right” amount of suffering, and no way to love an animal deeply without eventually experiencing this pain. They also discuss how society minimizes pet grief, why comments like “just get another dog” can be so harmful, and how grief can ripple through families, children, and other animals in the home.
This episode is not about answers—it’s about permission. Permission to grieve how you grieve. Permission to feel devastated by the loss of an animal who was your constant companion, your comforter, your witness. And permission to honor the love that made the loss hurt so much in the first place.
