Educator • Ceremonial Care Specialist • Holistic Funeral Director • IISCC • Natural Burials
Supporting an Animal at the End of Life
Date and time: Saturday, 14th November 2026, at 1pm
Length: Four hours
Location: Live online
A live, interactive four-hour,
introductory online workshop
with Holly Lyon-Hawk
The animals we share our lives with become part of our families, our routines and our sense of home. Thinking about their lives coming to an end can feel terribly difficult. Having somewhere to ask questions, explore your choices and talk openly can help you feel more supported.
Perhaps your animal is growing older, you have recently received a diagnosis, or you simply want to prepare while they are well. You may already have experienced a loss and wish you had known more. Whatever brings you here, you are very welcome.
This friendly, interactive workshop brings together practical learning, thoughtful conversation and time to reflect on your own relationship with your animal.
There is space for grief here
Grief can begin long before a death, and it can remain part of our lives afterwards. During our time together, there will be room to acknowledge those feelings, share memories if you wish,
and recognise how much these relationships mean.
You can contribute as much or as little as feels comfortable. Listening quietly is equally welcome, and you can pause or step away whenever you need to. You do not need to have the right words.
Together we will explore:
-
The bond we share with our animals - the companionship, everyday rituals and moments of wonder that make each relationship unique.
-
Preparing for ageing and illness - noticing changes, thinking about quality of life and preparing for conversations with your veterinary team.
-
Understanding end-of-life choices - exploring veterinary-led care, euthanasia and natural dying, and the questions you may wish to ask.
-
Supporting the whole household - considering your own needs, talking with children and recognising the needs of other animals.
-
What happens after a death - understanding your options, spending time with your animal, and considering cremation, burial and personal farewells.
-
Grief, remembrance and continuing connection - finding ways to honour your animal and the life you have shared.
-
Beginning a personal plan - identifying what matters to you, what you would like to ask and where you can find further support.
-
Alongside the learning, we will make space for the beauty and enchantment of our relationships with animals: their individual personalities, the things they teach us and the small moments we carry with us.
The workshop takes place live online over four hours, combining teaching, discussion, guided reflection and questions, with pauses along the way. It is open to adults aged 18 and over, with no previous knowledge or training needed.
The focus is on supporting you as someone who loves and cares for an animal. We will explore how to work alongside your veterinary team, who remain responsible for your animal’s clinical care.
I’m Holly Lyon-Hawk, an end-of-life doula for people and animals, a holistic funeral director and a celebrant, with an earlier background in veterinary nursing. For nearly 12 years, I have supported people through dying, death and bereavement.
My teaching brings together practical experience, compassion and a deep respect for the relationships we share with those we love.
Date and time: Saturday, 14th November 2026, at 1pm
Length: Four hours
Location: Live online
Cost: £65 per person
I would love you to join me. Bring your questions, your curiosity and whatever feelings accompany you.