In this conversation, Mariska Nell interviews Jennifer Muldowney, known as the Glam Reaper, who specializes in funeral planning and pet loss grief. Jennifer shares her journey into the funeral space, the importance of advocating for pet loss, and the emotional complexities surrounding grief. They discuss the societal hierarchy of grief, the need for safe spaces for grieving individuals, and how to involve pets in memorials. Jennifer also addresses the difficult decisions surrounding euthanasia and offers insights on memorializing pets. The conversation concludes with thoughts on when to consider getting another pet and the importance of honoring the memory of lost companions.

Jennifer Muldowney — better known as The Glam Reaper — is an Irish award-winning memorial planner, celebrant, and TEDx speaker who’s redefining how we talk about loss. After experiencing personal grief herself, Jennifer combined her background in event planning with a deep passion for supporting others, creating ceremonies that are as unique as the lives they honor. She’s the author of Say Farewell Your Way, the voice behind The Glam Reaper Podcast, and an advocate for mental health within the funeral profession. Alongside her work with Muldowney Memorials and Funeral Professionals Peer Support, Jennifer helps families and pet parents alike find comfort, healing, and even moments of lightness during life’s hardest goodbyes.

• Jennifer Muldowney is known as the Glam Reaper, specializing in funeral planning.
• She advocates for recognizing pet loss as a significant grief experience.
• Grief is often judged by a hierarchy, which can invalidate pet loss.
• Creating safe spaces for grieving individuals is essential.
• Involving pets in memorials can help in the grieving process.
• Euthanasia decisions are complex and should be approached with care.
• Memorializing pets can take many forms, including ceremonies and keepsakes.
• There is no right or wrong way to grieve or memorialize a pet.
• The love for a pet does not replace but expands with new companions.
• It's important to check local laws regarding pet burials and memorials.

Jennifer's website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

The Glam Reaper podcast

TedX Talk

Jon Steward's video

[00:00]- Intro

[03:03]- The Journey into Funeral Planning

[05:52]- Advocating for Pet Loss Grief

[09:10]- Understanding Grief Hierarchies

[11:48]- Creating Safe Spaces for Grief

[14:43]- Involving Pets in the Grieving Process

[19:55]- Incorporating Pets in Farewells

[22:45]- Navigating Difficult Decisions

[25:42]- Creative Memorials for Pets

[29:27]- Honoring Pets and the Grieving Process

[34:39]- The Journey of Love and Loss

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ramsey shares her extensive experience in veterinary medicine, discussing the importance of specialized care for pets, emergency preparedness, and essential first aid skills for pet owners. She emphasizes the need for proper veterinary care, including routine check-ups and vaccinations, while also providing practical advice on creating emergency kits and knowing when to seek professional help. Dr. Ramsey's insights aim to empower pet owners to take proactive steps in ensuring their pets' health and safety.

Dr. Sarah Ramsey, originally from West Sussex in the UK, graduated from The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh in 2006 and also holds a degree in Parasitology from Glasgow University. She has practiced acupuncture since 2007, is a member of the ABVA, and earned her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine from the University of Liverpool in 2016, later achieving Advanced Veterinary Practitioner status in 2022. With a special interest in feline medicine, oncology, pain management, and end-of-life care, Dr. Sarah has held senior roles including Clinical Director of a two-site practice in the UK and Head of Medicine at a London small animal hospital. She relocated to the UAE in 2021 with her husband, two children, and a growing rescue family of cats, alongside her Bedlington Whippet, Snowy, and a tortoise named Taco. Beyond veterinary medicine, she is a passionate runner, ultramarathon finisher, yoga practitioner, and stand-up paddleboarder, with recent adventures in aerial gymnastics and a goal of completing a triathlon within the next year.

• Dr. Sarah Ramsey has nearly 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine.
• Understanding veterinary specializations helps in choosing the right care for pets.
• Emergency kits for pets should include saline, gauze, and vet wrap.
• Basic first aid skills can save a pet's life in emergencies.
• Knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for pet health.
• Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health issues.
• Vaccination schedules may vary by region and should be discussed with a vet.
• Pet owners should be aware of their pets' specific health needs and risks.
• Regular blood work can help monitor chronic conditions in pets.
• Creating a customized emergency kit for pets is important for preparedness.

At-Home Emergency Kit

• Gloves (latex or nitrile) – to keep your hands clean and safe.
• Saline pods/pipettes – safe for cleaning wounds and eyes.
• Sterile gauze – apply pressure and stop bleeding.
• Vet wrap (self-adhering bandage) – to secure gauze/dressings (sticks to itself, not fur).
• Muzzle or strong tape for a makeshift muzzle – for safety if your pet is in pain.
• Tick hook – safe removal of ticks without leaving parts behind.
• Tweezers – for removing thorns, splinters, or foreign bodies.
• Cotton buds – useful for cleaning small areas, like removing grass seeds.
• Styptic powder - to stop bleeding from nails, ears, or tails.
• Elizabethan collar (cone) – to prevent licking/ingesting toxins or cleaning wounds.

On-the-Go / Walk & Travel Kit (Mini Version)

• Saline pod – for quick wound or eye cleaning.
• Sterile gauze – for immediate coverage of cuts or stings.
• Vet wrap – to hold gauze in place.
• Muzzle tape – lightweight safety option.
• Antihistamines (chlorphenamine / “Piriton”) – especially if your dog has known allergies (4mg tablet for medium/large dogs, ½ tablet for small...

In this episode of Tails and Tones, host Mariska discusses the importance of planning for your dog's future, particularly in selecting a godparent who can care for your pet if something happens to you. She emphasizes the need for responsible planning, including financial considerations and ensuring the chosen godparent shares your values and love for dogs. The episode also features heartwarming stories from the pet community and encourages listeners to celebrate their pets and the bonds they share.

• Have you ever wondered who would care for your pup?
• Choosing a godparent for your pup is responsible.
• Life happens, accidents happen, illness happens.
• We can still be there for them.
• Does this person have the time, energy, and finances?
• Look for someone who truly loves dogs.
• Make it a joyful moment.
• This is not about being morbid.
• You're giving your pup the gift of security.

Fetch or Forget - FURminator

Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth

Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid

[00:00]-Intro

[13:19]- Choosing the Right Godparent

[14:12]- Fetch or Forget - FURminator

[20:45]- Where Tails meet hearts - Elko's journey on Away on Earth

[23:07]- Paw-lebrity of the Week - Billy the Kid