Two Pet Parents’ Journeys Through Love, Loss, and Comfort Care

Two Pet Parents’ Journeys Through Love, Loss, and Comfort Care
By Michelle Mazur | Guest Contributor and Pet Parent

When my husband Glenn and I adopted Lola from P.A.W.S. Cat City in Seattle, we thought we were simply bringing home a spirited, three-year-old cat. What we didn’t expect was how deeply that choice would shape our lives—introducing us to the heart of caregiving, the pain of pet loss, and ultimately, the quiet power of planning for the end with love.

Lola quickly bonded with me. She had this uncanny sense of my moods. She was mine in a way I can’t explain. But Glenn was always in the background—present, supportive, involved.

When Lola was diagnosed with mammary cancer, her decline was sudden. Surgery led to complications, and her passing was rushed and traumatic. I was unprepared. It was chaos. That experience led Glenn and me to think more deeply about how we would handle future health declines in our pets.

Photo caption: Sampson, the cat, relaxing in pet stroller.

Choosing Pet Hospice: The Path Forward After Lola, we adopted Sampson—a Christmas gift from Glenn. Sampson soon became my closest companion. As he aged, he developed both kidney disease and diabetes, and we decided early on to pursue pet hospice and palliative care rather than aggressive treatments. We talked about what we were comfortable with. We chose a path that respected Sampson's dignity and our emotional limits. We focused on comfort care, choosing quality of life over quantity. Glenn administered fluids and medications. I tracked Sampson’s mood and energy. Together, we navigated each day with intention.

The Last Day: A Goodbye Without Regrets

As Sampson’s health declined in early 2024, we knew it was time. Rather than pursue more procedures, we contacted Lap of Love in Seattle-Tacoma, specializing in in-home euthanasia.

That decision gave us space. We gave Sampson a final day filled with his favorite treats, sunny windows, and soft cuddles.

The vet arrived quietly. The sun streamed in. After Sampson passed, a gentle wind swept through our home. It felt like the world honored him in our presence.

What Pet Caregiving Can Look Like

Through both Lola and Sampson, Glenn and I learned how to share the emotional and physical demands of caregiving. Glenn helped with treatments, arranged logistics, and held space for my grief.

Sampson was my Christmas gift. But Glenn has been my everyday gift. He made space for my grief and helped me make decisions I couldn’t have made alone.

Our Five Tips for Pet Parents Facing Their Pet’s End-of-Life

1. Discuss Quality of Life Early
   Start conversations before a crisis. Define what quality of life means for your pet and your family.
2. Consider Pet Hospice
   Ask your vet about pet hospice and palliative care services. They can offer guidance on keeping your pet comfortable at home.
3. Respect Your Pet's Personality
   Some pets tolerate medical care better than others. Adapt your approach based on their comfort level.
4. Plan for a Gentle Goodbye
   If your pet isn’t in distress, consider a "bucket list" day focused on favorite foods, cuddles, and peace.
5. Share the Journey
   Whether with a partner, friend, or support group, sharing the caregiving load can ease the burden and the grief. If you don’t have anyone in your home already, reach out to animal-loving friends to support you.

Carrying the Love Forward

Today, Sampson’s ashes sit beside Lola’s. Glenn and I still share memories over dinner, text old photos, and cuddle with our current cats, Attie and Brodie. We continue to honor the journey, quietly and intentionally.

Lola taught me what I didn’t want. Her loss was chaos. Sampson’s was peace. And Glenn and I can proudly say we made that peace possible.

( Blog post banner photo: Beloved Sampson the cat, relaxing in pet stroller. )

About the Author: Michelle Mazur Guest Blogger and Pet Parent Dr. Michelle Mazur is a messaging strategist and the founder of The Expert Up Club, a community for established business owners who want to do less marketing and create more demand for their offers. She lives in Seattle, WA with her adoring husband, two obsessive felines and a huge collection of Duran Duran memorabilia.