Paws & Tears - Navigating Grief Together

The bond between humans and animals is one of life’s most beautiful and profound connections. Our pets become our loyal companions, our confidants, and the steady presence that brings comfort in our most difficult moments. But what happens when a beloved pet faces the loss of their person? How do we help them navigate a grief they cannot fully understand while managing our own? In Paws & Tears – Navigating Grief Together, Leigh Baggett invites us into a deeply personal story, one that explores the intersection of love, loss, and the resilience of the human-animal bond.

This book chronicles Leigh’s journey alongside a mentally challenged man and his cherished Toy Australian Shepherd, Gemma, as they face the challenges of his illness and, ultimately, his passing. Leigh shares with honesty and compassion how she supported Gemma through the heartbreak of losing her person, offering readers invaluable insights into helping pets cope with grief while also navigating their own emotional journey.

Leigh brings a unique perspective to this story, combining her expertise as a breeder of Miniature Australian Shepherds with her firsthand experience of love and loss. Her deep connection to animals and her understanding of their emotional needs shine through every page, offering guidance to anyone who has ever found themselves in the difficult position of supporting a grieving pet.

Paws & Tears is more than a story about loss—it is a story about love, resilience, and the power of connection. Leigh’s reflections remind us that grief is not a solitary experience; it is shared, not only between humans but also between humans and the animals who stand by our sides. Through her words, she helps us see that even in the face of grief, there is an opportunity for healing and transformation.

This book is a heartfelt tribute to the man who loved Gemma and to the enduring bond between a devoted dog and her family. It is also a guide for anyone walking the path of loss, offering practical advice, emotional support, and hope. Whether you are navigating your own grief or seeking to help a pet through theirs, Paws & Tears is a gentle reminder that love transcends loss and that healing is possible when we lean on each other.

Leigh’s story is one of courage, compassion, and unwavering love. As you read Paws & Tears, may you find comfort, understanding, and inspiration to honor the memory of those you’ve lost while continuing to cherish the bonds that remain.