The Dr. Laura Podcast Am I Having a Grieving Issue?
Mar 19, 2026
A caller shares intense grief over a missing pet and the uncertainty that compounds it. Discussion covers why pet loss can feel overwhelming and how not to judge the depth of sorrow. Practical ideas for searching and tracking animals are offered. The conversation returns to reassurance and validating strong feelings.
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Pet Grief Can Be Deeper Than Human Loss
- Grief for a pet can be deeper than for people because the human-dog bond is uniquely unconditional and pure.
- Dr. Laura explains dogs love without complexity, making their loss feel huge and warranting unmeasured sorrow.
Stop Measuring Your Grief
- Stop judging or measuring your grief; allow yourself to feel it without comparison or criticism.
- Dr. Laura repeatedly tells Anita not to assess whether she's grieving enough or too much and to 'just grieve.'
Dog Disappeared Near Grain Bins On The Farm
- Anita describes her dog vanishing on a large farm while standing next to her husband near grain bins.
- The unknown circumstances—possible theft or predator—amplify her distress and uncertainty.