S3: Episode 6- Pet Loss

S3: Episode 6- Pet Loss

From Dr. G at the Heart of Healthcare by Kaishauna Guidry, MD, HMDC

October 1, 2025 · 34 min · Season 3 · Episode 6

About this episode

This episode discusses the emotional aspects of pet loss and the process of in-home euthanasia with veterinarian Ken Gorczyca.

Show notes- Mourning Dove Medical Presents Dr. G at the Heart of Healthcare Guest Ken Gorczyca - Veterinarian and Death Doula - Artist https://kengorczyca.com Mission-Educate & Empower in three parts, helping listeners ‘SEE’ what’s needed to navigate the healthcare system. 1. Story (theme) Dr. Ken’s work began during the AIDS crisis. He now brings Spirit to Veterinary medicine with the movement towards in-home euthanasia. He believes in the important sacred moment of releasing our beloved animal companions at the end of their short lives. Dr. G correlates some insights to hospice care but has anxiety about this topic as a pet parent. A Clinical Ethicist Reflects on the Life and Death of a Beloved Pet - Ryan J Dougherty - ehospice https://ehospice.com/editorial_posts/a-clinical-ethicist-reflects-on-the-life-and-death-of-a-beloved-pet-ryan-j-dougherty/ 2. Educate -Teaching point How in home euthanasia works. - Before: learn love story - During: sedation, favorite food, toys - After: ceremonial ritual to acknowledge love. Cremation vs burial 3. Empower -Valuable resources - Adopt an older pet https://muttville.org/ - A gentle rest https://www.agentlerest.com - Become a pet death…

People in this episode

Host: Kaishauna Guidry, MD, HMDC

Guest: Ken Gorczyca

Topics covered

  • pet loss
  • in-home euthanasia
  • veterinary medicine
  • hospice care
  • grief support

Keywords

  • pet loss
  • euthanasia
  • veterinary care
  • grief
  • death doula

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Mourning Dove Medical, ehospice, Muttville, A Gentle Rest, University of Vermont

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