Helping Kids Understand The Loss Of Pets And Loved Ones

Today we talk with two experts on how to talk about the loss of a pet with your children. We also talk about how to talk to kids about the death of a family member and how to prepare children for funerals, cremations, what to expect at an age-appropriate level.

Lacey Brueckner, a funeral director, and Katherine Pendergast, a children's author and funeral industry professional share their insight and expertise in this area. Together, they discuss their collaboration in creating books to guide children through the funeral process and pet loss. The episode explores the importance of open conversations, offering kids a chance to voice their feelings and navigate grief, as well as practical advice on supporting children through difficult times. The episode provides valuable insights for parents and families dealing with loss and offers resources for those seeking guidance on the topic.

About the Guests:

Katherine Pendergast

Katherine Pendergast’s beloved 11-year-old Great Dane, Carmela, passed away on February 19, 2022. Katherine and Carmela were a certified pet therapy team for the majority of Carmela’s life. They volunteered, working with children in their community. Carmela always knew it was time to work when she wore her uniform. She was an incredible dog and brought a smile to many children throughout her career. Katherine’s other Great Dane, Meadow, passed away on May 5, 2022, just shy of her 11th birthday. Meadow was a spunky Great Dane with a big personality who could make anyone smile with her goofy antics. Katherine dedicated this book to Carmela and Meadow, the gentle giants. Katherine lives with her family in Bismarck, North Dakota. She has also written several other books, including award-winning and number-one bestsellers. Her works include Pickles the Dog: Adopted, Pickles the Dog: A Christmas Tradition, Pickles the Dog: Goes to School, and Babies of the Badlands. She has also coauthored I’m a Spinosaurus: Bigger Than a T-Rex, In Loving Memory: A Child’s Journey to Understanding a Funeral and Starting the Grieving Process, and In Loving Memory: A Child’s Journey to Understanding a Cremation Funeral and Starting the Grieving Process.

Lacie Brueckner

Lacie’s family lovingly cared for two little dogs, Max, a sweet Bichon/Cairn Terrier mix, and Layla, a spunky Yorkie. Max and Layla were the best of friends. When Max died in 2018, Lacie saw that pets also grieve. Layla spent a moment with Max just after he passed, showing signs of sadness and grief. Lacie noticed that Layla needed extra cuddles and attention for a few months before he found a new normal. Things were becoming difficult for Layla in his old age, and he crossed the rainbow bridge in 2022. Lacie dedicates this book to Max and Layla. Lacie lives with her family on a farm near Niagara, North Dakota. She is a licensed funeral director, serving families since 2005. She has a special interest in helping children through the grieving process. She has coauthored two children’s books: In Loving Memory: A Child’s Journey to Understanding a Funeral and Starting the Grieving Process, and In Loving Memory: A Child’s Journey to Understanding a Cremation Funeral and Starting the Grieving Process.

To connect with Lacie and Katherine:

Website: katssocks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katssocks

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katssocks/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder-Adams is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

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