"Griffin's Heart" deals with pet loss in profound way

Dealing with the loss of a pet is never easy, and actress Reagan Pasternak (HBO’s Sharp Objects) spoke to the Blackwell Journal-Tribune on her new book and organization aiming to help grieving pet parents cope with the loss. 

The book, “Griffin's Heart: Mourning Your Pet with No Apologies | A Grief Guide, Memoir, Healing Journal, and Keepsake” is a one-of-a-kind book/journal/grief guide/memoir/keepsake that is full of sweet surprises, comfort, and the tools needed to 'find the light' on the other side of pet loss.

This acclaimed resource is endorsed by Jaycee Dugard (NYT Bestselling Author), Tamara Levitt (Head of Mindfulness at 'Calm'), Rebecca Bailey, PhD (Bestselling Author), Wendy Van de Poll, MS, CEOL (Founder, Center For Pet Loss Grief), and many others.

For many, the loss of a pet is a profound and devastating experience, yet often dismissed by 

Drawing from her personal journey after the death of her "soulmate animal," Griffin, Pasternak delves into the unique grief of losing a beloved pet and offers readers a way to navigate the pain with compassion and understanding.  

Pasternak explains that she was motivated to write the book after grappling with feelings of isolation and invalidation following Griffin’s death. "I felt like this type of grief wasn’t taken as seriously as human loss," she shared. "When I finally spoke to a therapist, I realized how much I needed someone to validate my pain. I knew I wasn’t the only one going through this."  

The book combines Pasternak’s personal stories, research, and interactive exercises to guide readers through their grief. She emphasizes the concept of "the art of mourning," encouraging readers to honor their pets through rituals, reflection, and creative memorialization. Each chapter is designed to help readers process their emotions and create a personalized keepsake dedicated to their lost companion.  

One of the book's standout sections addresses guilt, a common emotion among grieving pet owners. "Many people suffer from tremendous guilt after the loss of a pet," Pasternak noted. Her chapter, titled *Oy, The Guilt*, provides practical tools to help readers reframe their feelings and move from guilt back to love.  

Pasternak also touches on societal misconceptions about pet grief, describing it as a "disenfranchised grief" — one that isn’t always acknowledged or respected. "The loss of a pet can be just as, if not more, devastating than the loss of a human family member," she said. "Our connection with animals is pure, unconditional, and deeply intertwined with our daily lives. When they’re gone, the void is immense."  

Since the release of *Griffin’s Heart*, Pasternak has connected with readers worldwide, hearing their stories and witnessing the impact of her work. "Knowing that I’ve made a difference in someone’s grief journey is overwhelming," she said. She has also expanded her offerings with a line of companion products, including a memorial candle set and a throw blanket, to help grieving pet owners find comfort.  

Looking ahead, Pasternak hopes to see a shift in how society views pet loss, advocating for greater recognition of its emotional toll. "I think people deserve work leave when mourning a pet, just as they do for any other significant loss," she said.  

Her message to those currently grieving is simple yet profound: "You are not alone. Honor your pain, allow yourself time to heal, and remember that the love you shared with your pet reflects something extraordinary about you, too."  

Through Griffin’s Heart and her heartfelt advocacy, Pasternak offers a compassionate guide for those navigating one of life’s most painful yet often unspoken losses.