The Deep Grief of Losing a Pet

Losing a pet is not just about saying goodbye to an animal—it’s about losing a constant companion, a source of unconditional love, and a beloved member of the family. For many, a pet’s presence is woven into their daily routine, their quiet moments, and their happiest memories. When that presence is gone, the grief can be overwhelming.

If someone you care about has recently lost a pet, you may wonder how best to support them. While you can’t take away their pain, you can help them feel seen, understood, and less alone in their grief.

At Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia, we witness every day just how deep the bond between people and their pets runs. We also know how much it means to have the right kind of support when facing that loss.

Cornell Vet Pet Loss Resources and Support

How to Be There in a Meaningful Way

1. Acknowledge Their Loss—It Matters

Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can say is “I’m so sorry.”

Grief is often made harder when it feels dismissed or minimized. Avoid phrases like:

  • “It was just a pet.”
  • “You can always get another one.”
  • “They had a good life—try not to be sad.”

Instead, offer words that honor the depth of their love:

  • “I know how much [pet’s name] meant to you. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
  • “Losing a pet is incredibly hard. I’m here if you want to talk or share memories.”
  • “I can’t imagine how much you’re hurting right now. I’m thinking of you.”

A few simple words can validate their grief and let them know they’re not alone.

2. Just Listen—No Fixing, No Rushing

Grief doesn’t need advice—it needs space.

  • Let them talk about their pet as much as they need to.
  • If they cry, sit with them. Silence can be powerful—you don’t have to fill it.
  • Ask gentle questions:
    • “What’s one of your favorite memories with [pet’s name]?”
    • “What’s something funny they used to do?”
    • “What did you love most about them?”

There’s no timeline for grief. Let them move through it at their own pace.

If they’re struggling deeply, consider recommending professional grief support:
Pet Loss and Bereavement Support – APLB

3. Offer Practical Help—Small Gestures Mean a Lot

Grief can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. Offering practical, specific help can be a huge relief:

  • Help with Pet Belongings – Ask if they’d like you to store or donate their pet’s items when they’re ready.
  • Prepare a Meal – Cooking may feel impossible. Dropping off dinner (or even just their favorite coffee) can be an act of care.
  • Assist with Memorial Plans – Help create a tribute, whether it’s a photo book, paw print keepsake, or a small memorial garden.
  • Help with Other Pets- Sometimes caring for remaining pets can cause a fresh wave of grief. Offer to help walk the dog or scoop litterboxes.

ASPCA’s Guide to Honoring Your Pet

What to Avoid Saying or Doing

Do:

  • Acknowledge their grief.
  • Be patient with their emotions.
  • Offer stories and memories of their pet.

Don’t:

  • Say, “I know how you feel,” unless you’ve experienced a similar loss.
  • Tell them to “move on” or suggest getting another pet too soon.
  • Try to distract them from their grief instead of letting them process it.

Each person grieves differently. Let them feel what they need to feel.

Helping Children Cope with Pet Loss

For children, losing a pet can be their first experience with death, and they may have many questions.

Ways to Support a Grieving Child:

  • Be honest, but gentle—explain in age-appropriate terms.
  • Encourage them to express their feelings through drawing, writing, or storytelling.
  • Reassure them that it’s okay to feel sad and miss their pet.

Supporting Them Beyond the First Few Days

Grief doesn’t disappear after the funeral, and pet loss is no different. Check in weeks and even months later—they will still be feeling the loss long after others have moved on.

Ways to Keep Their Pet’s Memory Alive:

  • Make a donation in their pet’s name to a rescue or shelter.
  • Create a small keepsake, like a framed photo or custom pet portrait.
  • Plant a tree or flower as a living tribute to their pet.
  • Send a thoughtful message on anniversaries or special dates.

Even a simple, “Thinking of you and [pet’s name] today,” can mean the world.

The Power of Being There

Losing a pet is heartbreaking. But having someone who truly sees and supports you in that grief can make all the difference.

You don’t have to have the perfect words. You don’t need to fix it. Just show up, listen, and love them through it.

At Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia, we know that the loss of a pet is the loss of a family member. If you or someone you love is struggling with grief, we are here to help.

Contact Us for compassionate support and guidance.

By offering understanding, patience, and kindness, you can help a grieving friend or family member feel less alone—and remind them that their pet’s love will always be part of them.