By Nicole Vykoukal, LCSW My dog and me on my wedding day, where he served as our ring bearer. “She was like my child.” “He was my best friend.” “She was family.” When someone is grieving an animal, they may reach for a familiar relationship to help another person understand the hurt. I hear this often in my work with pet loss. Sometimes the comparison feels right. Sometimes the person says it and then pauses, as if it still hasn't captured who their animal was to them. You ma

Nicole Vykoukal, LCSW Austin pet loss support counselor I was honored to contribute to a thoughtful and moving story by Stephanie Federico for KUT's ATXplained series about the Pet Rest Cemetery in Pflugerville, Texas. As a psychotherapist specializing in Austin pet loss support and grief, I shared insights into the deep emotional bonds we form with our pets and how their loss can profoundly impact us. Stephanie's story explores not only the fate of the cemetery but also the

Nicole Vykoukal, LCSW Our fast-paced world can take us away from the instinctual and inherent wisdom we hold within. Many of us are stressed, anxious, depressed, and overwhelmed. Set aside time to connect with nature and be free from phone or computer distractions. Being in nature and approaching time outside with a sense of curiosity may help you connect with a sense of wonder, discover your inner sacred knowing, find you primal wisdom, and increase your resilience. Tips for

I have compiled a list of ways to memorialize your beloved companion animal when they die. These suggestions have come from my own experience with pet loss and countless others’ suggestions for remembering and honoring their lost loved ones. Create a space Make an altar or space honoring your companion. The altar can include your pet’s favorite items (cat nip, toys, pet beds), photographs of your companion, flowers and other items you find relevant to honoring your loved one

Find inner peace through meditation with your best friend. Practicing mindfulness by focusing on your senses, allowing your dog to serve as an anchor to the present moment, can reduce stress and help you feel calmer and more grounded. When you’re feeling tired, overwhelmed, stressed or flustered you can use this meditation to connect to more grounded, peaceful and centered states of being. Don’t worry about doing this perfectly. The key is to bring present moment awareness to

A Lesson from My Dog The Morning Walk I was in my mid-twenties and in graduate school. On a breezy spring morning, my dog Lucy and I were out for our usual walk when we came across a white plastic bag caught in some vines and billowing in the wind. Lucy went on high alert. Her ears perked, her nose twitched, and she locked eyes on this strange object. When the bag rustled in the breeze, the hair on her back stood up and she began barking. I tried to keep walking, but she was