In this heartfelt episode of Sit, Lay, Rest, hosts Liz Egler and Ashley Infantino sit down with Sarah to hear the deeply personal story of her English bulldog, Ramsey. Sarah opens up about her unconventional journey into pet parenthood—growing up with family members afraid of dogs, unexpectedly choosing a bulldog puppy, and how Ramsey quickly became a cherished part of her family.

Sarah shares the unique ways Ramsey helped her through life’s transitions—from office culture transformation to coping with fertility struggles and ultimately, motherhood. Together, they reflect on the powerful bond between humans and their pets, laughing about bulldog antics, navigating the haze of new pet ownership, and remembering special milestones with Ramsey and Sarah’s daughter, Romilly.

But this episode also bravely explores grief and the profound void left when a beloved pet passes. Sarah recounts the shock of Ramsey’s sudden cancer diagnosis, the impossible decisions pet owners face, and the compassionate community—in person and online—that helped her grieve. She also discusses supporting a child through loss and how she’s found new purpose and gratitude after welcoming another bulldog, Renoa, all while honoring Ramsey’s enduring place in their lives.

From canine companionship to devastating goodbyes, this is an honest, moving conversation about love, loss, and the glittery persistence of grief. Whether you’re a lifelong dog parent or facing the pain of pet loss, Sarah’s story will resonate deeply, reminding us of the profound impact our furry friends have on our families and our hearts.

In this heartwarming episode of Sit, Lay, Rest, host Elizabeth Polizzo and guest host, CJ Infantino, welcome Deb to share her journey shaped by the dogs she’s loved—and lost.

Debra reminisces about her beloved golden retriever, Wesley, recounting their adventures in Boulder, Colorado, and the indelible bond they shared. She speaks candidly about Wesley’s playful quirks—like his obsession with rocks and tennis balls—and the heartbreak of navigating his illness and saying goodbye through home euthanasia. The conversation offers an open, honest look at the pain of pet loss, the strange clarity of the moment a beloved animal's spirit leaves, and how grief can linger in everyday routines.

From there, Deb discusses how Wesley’s passing, combined with other life changes, cleared the path for her to leap into a new chapter: founding an animal rescue shelter in Dharamsala, India. She describes her immersion into the local culture, the unique challenges of animal welfare in India, and the surprising lessons learned from the scrappy, resilient Indian street dogs she grew to love—especially Ruby, a spirited rescue who became her companion.

Throughout the episode, themes of grief, healing, and connection are woven together. The hosts and Debra explore what it means to grieve deeply, how communities (both canine and human) can help us move forward, and how being open to new possibilities can offer profound meaning after loss.

Whether you’re an animal lover, someone who’s experienced loss, or just looking for an inspiring story about following your heart across the world, this episode is a testament to the powerful bonds we share with our pets—and the incredible impact they have on our lives.

Find out more: Dharamsala Animal Rescue.