The Fear of the Pain is Almost Worse Than Feeling the Pain

The day I looked at Leo and saw an old dog my heart sank.

In my eyes, he’d always be the adorable, street-smart pup with a mind of his own, the thief of socks and lover of rubbish bins who knew how to make everyone love him.

But there was no doubt about it .. he was getting old.

Things slowly changed - rather than jumping onto beds, chairs and sofas, I’d lift him up and down, instead of sleeping through the night, I’d be up to let him out .. once at first, then twice, three times or more, walks .. just the two of us because he couldn’t keep up with the others anymore.

None of it mattered.

I was ok with him slowing down but I DREADED the day he’d leave me.

My biggest fear .. not knowing when it’s “time” .. I didn’t want to put a dog to sleep who still had life and fight in him AND I didn’t want to prolong his suffering just because I didn’t know how to let go.

He sure made that part easy.

It was as if he’d waited for my parents to arrive from Germany so we could be together again, exactly as we were when we found him all those years before.

At 16.5 years of age and with his health declining as it had over the prior months, it wasn’t really a surprise and still .. having your heart torn apart is never easy.

If you’ve ever lost a being you loved, I know you understand.

If you’ve lost a dog or if you’re dreading losing one, you’ll love today’s Pawsome Human who manages to change how we look at and deal with those final moments in a whole new way - from end of the world to natural - and in a way beautiful - part of life.

Don’t miss it ..

This week’s Pawsome Human: Monique Brignoni - Facing the Final Moments: Embracing End of Life - Naturally, Without Regrets

In this episode, I am joined by Monique from Animalchemy, who shares her profound insights into the natural end-of-life process for pets.

Monique's expertise blends animal medicine with spiritual teachings, providing a unique perspective on how we can offer support during our pets' final stages.

She emphasizes the importance of understanding the predictable phases of dying, recognizing signs that may be misinterpreted as pain, and the crucial role of staying calm and present. Monique also highlights how learning about the dying process can deepen our bond with our pets, helping us to offer a peaceful and conscious end-of-life experience.

You’ll gain practical advice on recognizing the last cycle of life and letting nature take its course while avoiding the unnecessary stress of forced interventions.

Whether you're preparing for a pet's passing or simply want to strengthen your connection with your animal companion, this conversation is a compassionate guide to one of life's most challenging moments.

Grab a cuppa and join us (and yes, please like and subscribe to help the baby YouTube channel grow 🙏)

To find out more and connect with Monique:

Website: https://animalchemy.com/

Bio: Monique left the glamorous role of personal assistant to a prince to follow her true love—animals and a deep fascination for the unseen. With her multi-sensory abilities she has helped hundreds of pet parents deepen their bonds with their beloved animals.
But the loss of her beloved cat, Rami, sparked a decade of study of the natural end-of-life process, shaping her unique approach. By integrating emotional and spiritual principles, she guides peaceful, pain-free transitions—creating a loving bridge across forever.
Today, Monique trains aspiring pet death doulas, empowering them to facilitate end-of-life journeys free of regret. Guided by animals—our gurus at teaching us how to become better humans in life and in death —her mission is to support the journey of awakening of pet parents and doulas bringing them home to themselves so they can become a light for both pets and the world.

Your Free gift: https://training.animalchemy.com/free-gift-wyph

Social media links:
https://www.facebook.com/animalchemy1/
https://www.facebook.com/monique.brignoni/
https://www.instagram.com/animalchemy/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-brignoni/

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Coming up … for anyone raising a puppy (or helping clients raise theirs)

Sunday, March 23rd, 3pm MST / 5pm EST - Save the date and join us live!

Dr. Laura Donaldson and Annie Phenix host a free live Q&A call to

• talk about what’s wrong with traditional puppy classes and training

• give you a look behind the scenes of the 2.0 version of their popular online course Transforming Puppies, and

• answer your questions about raising puppies

Coming up this week …

Join us for

"Barking Mad to Calm & Quiet"
with Julie Cluley

20th March, 5:30pm Europe (4:30pm UK, 12:30pm ET, 9:30am PT)

Most dog owners assume the secret to a quieter dog is training the dog.

But here’s the twist: The biggest factor in your dog’s behaviour is you.

Your energy.
Your mindset.
Your ability to see the world through their eyes.

In her free masterclass, expert Dog Listener and 3 Principles coach Julie Cluley will show you how to shift from frustration and firefighting… to calm, confident leadership that helps your dog feel safe, understood, and naturally relaxed.

You’ll discover:
🐶 Why most barking problems start with overstimulation - and how to fix it
🐶 How to see the world through your dog’s eyes (with Julie’s “Dog Listening Goggles”)
🐶 The #1 mindset shift that helps your dog calm down - even before you “train” anything

This is the missing piece for so many struggling dog owners, and it could change everything for you and your dog.

Found at https://www.facebook.com/dogsdisclosed

This week’s product pick:

"Great Around Dogs, Snappy Around People" T-Shirt

Let’s be real ... your social skills peak when you're surrounded by dogs, not people. If you’re the type who lights up at the sight of a wagging tail but goes full resting grump face in crowded human spaces, this tee was made for you!

Crafted from ultra-soft, high-quality cotton, this shirt keeps you comfy whether you’re chilling with your pup, dodging small talk, or making a quick escape to the dog park. It’s the perfect way to let the world know where your true loyalties lie because let’s face it, dogs are way more fun anyway.

Why You’ll Love It:
Hilariously Relatable – Perfect for dog lovers with selective social energy.
Soft & Comfy – Premium cotton for all-day wearability.
Versatile & Fun – Great for walks, dog park outings, or just avoiding people.
Unisex Fit – A classic, easygoing style for every dog enthusiast.

Wear it. Own it. And if someone asks about it? Just point to the nearest dog and walk away.

Grab yours here (different colors available)

FREE worldwide shipping for ALL products.

15% off your first order (enter coupon code STBD15 during checkout) as an exclusive thank you for being a Soul Touched by Dogs subscriber.

Since we’re an international bunch with me in Spain and you most likely in the US, UK or somewhere else, I chose a supplier that produces in different places around the world so you won’t have to wait weeks to receive your order.

And yes, 25% of the profits will be donated to a Pawsome human or non-profit (details to be announced).

Are you a canine professional?

A trainer, coach, behaviorist, nutritionist, holistic vet, or other canine expert with a holistic, kindness-first approach?

Would you like to be a guest on the podcast? Do you know someone you think would make a great guest?

Is your business ready for an online revenue stream that has you covered when you can’t or don’t want to offer 1:1 or in-person consults?

Go (or send them) to https://soultouchedbydogs.com/pros

And as always ..

If you know another Soul Touched by Dogs, please send them to https://soultouchedbydogs.com 🙏🙏🐾🐾

Until next week,

Anke