20 Thoughtful Ways to Support Someone Grieving a Pet

Dogs, cats, birds, and other pets bring unconditional love into our lives. For many, losing a beloved pet can be as heart-wrenching as losing a family member. If you're wondering how to comfort a friend or loved one during this difficult time, here are 20 compassionate and practical ways to offer your support.

1. Offer a Warm Embrace

Sometimes, a heartfelt hug can convey more than words. Physical comfort can provide immediate solace to someone mourning their pet.

2. Assist with Transportation

Offer to drive them to or from the veterinarian's office, or help pick up their pet's ashes. These tasks can be emotionally taxing, and your support can ease their burden. It can be helpful to note a specific task you can help with, rather than simply saying “let me know if there’s anything I can do” which puts the burden on the griever.

3. Help with Daily Chores

Grief can make everyday tasks overwhelming. To lighten their load, offer to help with chores like cleaning, cooking, or shopping.

4. Prepare a Meal

Cooking a comforting meal or organizing a meal train can provide both nourishment and emotional support during their grieving process.

5. Encourage Sharing Memories

Invite them to share stories or look through photos of their pet. Reminiscing can be a healing part of the grieving process.

6. Create a Memory Box

Help them assemble a box filled with their pet's belongings, photos, and mementos. This tangible collection can serve as a cherished keepsake.

7. Send a Sympathy Card or Gift

A heartfelt note or a thoughtful gift, like a personalized memorial item, can show that you care and acknowledge their loss.

8. Offer a Listening Ear

Be available to listen without judgment. Sometimes, the best support is simply being there to hear their thoughts and feelings.

9. Avoid Minimizing Their Grief

Refrain from saying things like "It was just a pet." Acknowledge the depth of their loss and validate their feelings.

10. Share a Personal Memory

If you knew their pet, sharing a fond memory can bring comfort and reinforce the positive impact their pet had on others.

11. Respect Their Grieving Process

Everyone grieves differently. Give them space if needed, and understand that healing takes time.

12. Offer Discreet Support

If they prefer solitude, consider leaving a care package at their door or sending a comforting message to let them know you're thinking of them.

13. Encourage Self-Care

Gently remind them to take care of themselves, whether it's eating, sleeping, or engaging in activities they enjoy.

14. Suggest a Meaningful Memorial Item

Help your friend honor their pet's memory with a tangible keepsake. Many people find comfort in physical memorials that reflect their bond. You might suggest:

• Urns or keepsake urns to hold their pet’s ashes. Urns may be kept at home, in a special place, or in a pet cemetery. 
• Cremation jewelry, such as necklaces with a small portion of ashes inside, allows pet owners to keep their pet close to their hearts.
• Engraved garden stones to mark a favorite outdoor spot that their pet loved.
• Custom photo frames, paw print kits, or shadow boxes that display collars, tags, and favorite photos.

These thoughtful items can offer a sense of closeness and provide a dedicated space for remembrance.

15. Accompany Them on Walks

If they had routines with their pet, like daily walks, offer to join them. This can help fill the void and provide companionship. Fresh air is also a great natural resource to aid in healing and fight depression.

16. Provide Resources

Share information about pet loss support groups or counseling services if they express interest in seeking additional help.

17. Be Patient with Their Emotions

Grief can manifest in various ways. Be patient and understanding as they navigate their emotions.

18. Celebrate Their Pet's Life

Encourage them to celebrate their pet's life by hosting a small memorial or sharing stories with friends and family.

19. Check In Regularly

Continue to check in on them, even weeks after their loss. Ongoing support can be crucial as they adjust to life without their pet.

20. Respect Their Decisions About Future Pets

Whether they choose to adopt another pet or not, support their decision without pressure or judgment.

Additional Grief Resources

Supporting someone through the loss of a pet requires empathy, patience, and understanding. Your compassionate presence can make a significant difference during their time of grief. Organizations like Lap of Love and the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement offer virtual support groups. You can also explore our resources on coping with loss for more guidance and comfort.

Pets also experience loss after the death of their “person.” Experts say a routine can help them navigate the change.

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