Losing a pet can be for a pet owner as devastating as losing a loved one. Grief, sadness, emotional distress and heartbreak is real. This can sometimes be difficult to understand for those who are not pet lovers. After all, it is just a cat or a dog?
What many people fail to understand is that the pet has been a companion, a part of the family and a trusted friend, sometimes for years and even for a lifetime.
Losing a pet is painful and is very important to people. Unfortunately, society does not treat the loss of a pet as they do for a human. There is no formal process, no funeral, no memorial held in the traditional sense of the word. Pet lovers are often left alone with their grief and are expected to continue with life as usual.
For children, the death of a pet is often their first experience of a significant loss and can be just as devastating. Emotions and feelings never experienced before come to the front and parents are faced with dealing with this, often being unprepared.
Everyone’s grief is different. Some pet owners may become depressed and withdrawn. Work habits may change and suffer. Elderly people who only had a pet as the company may experience physical distress and become ill. Children can show signs of emotional pain and sadness that they find difficult to communicate.
We have put together some ideas to help those grieving the loss of a beloved pet. There is a lot that friends and family can do to help.
What to Say to Someone Who Loses a Pet
When a family member, friend, or colleague loses a beloved pet, it can be hard to know what to say. You can simply mention that you are sorry for the loss of [pet’s name], care about them, and offer to help them in any way.
Suggestions for what to say when someone loses a pet:
- Love goes on and continues, and you two will always be connected.
- May loving memories of your beloved [Pet’s Name] warm your heart forever.
- I’m just so sorry. Caring thoughts are with you.
- There will never be another one like [He/She]. With sincere sympathy.
- They were lucky to have had you love them so much. Sorry for your loss.
- Thinking about you and [Pet’s name]. If there is anything you need just let me know.
- This breaks my heart for you. I am so, so sorry.
- To lose a true friend is never easy. Know that you’re in my thoughts.
Suggested Pet Condolence Card Messages
- I’m so sorry for your loss, [Pet’s Name] was part of the family and she always greeted us when we visited.
- [Pet’s Name] was so special and so lucky to have you to love him. Thinking of you.
- I am so sorry for your loss. [Pet’s name] will be greatly missed. Please accept our condolences.
- I am so sorry for your loss. I am glad [He/She] lived a beautiful life with a wonderful owner.
- I am so sorry you lost your friend. My heart goes out to you.
- I can’t imagine how much it hurts, and I wish you comfort.
- I know how much [He/She] meant to you. Know that you’re in my thoughts.
- I know you miss [Pet’s Name] terribly. I’m thinking about you and sending thoughts and prayers.
- I’m so sorry you lost your best friend. What a special and gentle soul he/she was.
Knowing what to say when someone you know loses a beloved pet is challenging for many people. The correct words are hard to find and you don’t want to sound insincere.
Here we have put together a collection of Simple Pet Condolence Messages to help you. They can be written into a pet sympathy card or attached to a small gift. You can post them on Social Media or send as a text message.
Acknowledging the passing of a pet is important and goes a long way towards helping a grieving person. If you knew the pet, you can choose a message that mentions the pet by name. If not, choose a message that simply expresses your condolences.
Caring Condolence Messages for Loss of Dog
- [Dog’s Name] was special and such a great house dog. German Shepherds are very loyal and intelligent. He was very fortunate to have you as an owner.
- A dog’s life is so short however you and [Dogs Name] had a great relationship and many fond memories.
- You will miss [Dogs Name]. Chow’s are so loyal to their owners. But I loved how she could be strong-willed at times. Thinking of you.
- I remember how your [Dog’s Name] would watch TV with you forever. You guys were lucky to have each other for so many years. Let’s keep in touch.
- I’m sorry for your loss. I remember how much [Dog’s Name] loved to go on long rides in the car. You always included him in everything. What fond memories you have.
- Sorry to hear of [Dog’s Name] passed away. Cocker spaniels are always affectionate and gentle but she what’s the best of the best. Stay close – I’ll be calling.
- Best friends come in all breeds. I’m sorry for your loss.
- It must be so hard for you to say goodbye to Harry. Pugs have such a happy disposition and she was so good with children. I share in your loss; take care.
- Sorry to hear about [Dog’s Name] passing. I’ll never forget how much everyone enjoyed him when you brought him to work. Labradors are so loving and friendly. My thoughts are with you.
- [Dog’s Name] Always wanted to cuddle when you were feeling down and out. What a wonderful friend she was.
- [Dog’s Name] was the best dog ever. I’m sorry you must go through this.
- [Dog’s Name] was the best German Shepard ever. He turned out to be the neighborhood dog. He roamed everyone’s yard and played with all the kids. He liked the treats we all gave him. Many families will miss him – Especially you.
For many people, a dog is as loved as a family member. Children, they are friends to play with. For the elderly, a dog is often their only companion. The loss of a dog is devastating and heartbreaking. Putting down a sick or old dog is even more painful and the trauma can last a long time.
It is difficult to find the right words to say when someone you know has lost a beloved dog. Don’t stress – you will surely find some meaningful words to offer in our list below. Copy them into a pet sympathy card or attach it to a small gift. They will bring comfort to the recipient.
Condolence Messages for Loss of Cat
- My heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of your beloved [Cat’s Name]. I’ll never forget [his/her] sweet meow. May [he/she] rest in peace.
- I know you cared deeply for [Cat’s Name]. You will miss her forever; she was a wonderful companion.
- [Cat’s Name] was so affectionate to you. [He/She] brought much comfort to your life.
- Even though it may be difficult, I hope your grieving may eventually remind you of all the amazing times you spent with [Cat’s Name].
- Persian cats are typically gentle and laid back, [Cat’s Name] personality was all of that plus the most affectionate friend you could have. I am wishing you healing and peace.
- I pray your grieving and reflection eventually bring you solace and fond memories of your beloved [Cat’s Name].
- Dogs may be man’s best friend, but cats are members of the family. Sorry for the loss of your family member.
- [Cat’s Name] was discrete and still a gentle presence in your family’s life.
- I remember how [Cat’s Name] would approach me at the door with such a gentle presence. [He/She] was likable and very loyal to you. Very sorry for your loss.
- It’s difficult to say goodbye to such a special companion. My thoughts are with you.
Cats have nine lives, but sadly, they too will pass away. For a pet lover, this is a heartbreaking time. As a friend, a family member, a work colleague or an acquaintance, you may find yourself in a difficult spot, not knowing what to say. Understanding that this loss is as devastating as losing a loved one makes it even harder.
Our carefully chosen list of Condolence Messages offers a beautiful choice. If you knew the pet, mention her by name and perhaps add a small anecdote of a happy memory. If you did not see the pet, simply send along consoling words to let the bereaved person know that you are thinking of them.
Should I Send a Condolence Card for a Loss of a Pet?
It is always appropriate to send a sympathy card to friends and relatives to acknowledge the loss of a beloved pet.
Sending a Condolence Card is a meaningful gesture. It may seem silly or unnecessary, but the person receiving it will undoubtedly get some small measure of comfort.
In today’s busy world, hearing about the loss of someone’s pet probably doesn’t affect you as it would if it were a loved one. People are expected to ‘get on with it’ without fuss. This is very difficult and stressful. Pets that have been in your life for years become family members. They are loved just as much and their passing can be equally as devastating and heartbreaking.
A person who has lost a beloved pet may put on a brave face, but inside they suffer from sadness, grief and pain. In society, there are no formal processes, no funerals, memorials or time off to grieve and come to terms with the loss.
For children, the loss of a pet may be their first devastating experience with death. For an elderly person alone, this loss could mean a lifelong companion is no more.
By offering sympathy and support, you have done the best you can. Choose a lovely message and add it to a sympathy card or attach it to a small gift. Keep the words simple and kind. If you knew the pet, mention her by name. The recipient will get comfort knowing that you are thinking of them and they will feel less alone. By sending a card, you acknowledge their pain and they will be more inclined to express their sorrow. This is the first and most important small step towards healing.
What to Express in a Pet Condolence Card – 6 TIPS
- Acknowledge that you understand how devastating this loss is. Say that you know that their grief is real and will take time to heal. They cannot be expected to continue in the busy world as if nothing has happened.
- Refer to the pet by name,. Never refer to the pet as “your dog” or “your cat.”
- Recall pet memories. If you are a family friend you may have spent time with their pet. Recalling fond memories or fun occasions will make your card authentic and personal. Once the sadness is over, they will take comfort in remembering these special moments.
- Say that time heals. Socially, the passing of a pet is difficult. There are no formal funerals, memorials or services. People are left to grieve alone while the world continues. Let them know that time heals and that they are allowed to take time to deal with the loss.
- Let them know that you are there for them. Offering help in any small way is always welcome in a time of grief, Whether it is a phone call, a letter, doing a chore or offering a lift. If you can help, add this to your card.
- Avoid saying these words. Try not to compare their experience to the one you may have. Everyone is different and needs to come to terms in their way. Don’t say anything about getting a new pet. It is unhelpful and will only increase their pain.
Learning of the passing of a pet tends to put people in a difficult situation. What do you do or say? How serious and sad can this be? For many people who are not animal lovers, it may even seem silly to become emotional over the death of a pet.
Once you realize that the passing of a pet is equally as devastating as that of a loved one, it makes sense to acknowledge their sadness in some small way.
Choosing a Pet Condolence Card is a thoughtful way to let them know you are thinking of them.
Other Ways to Show Support for the Loss Of a Pet
Grieving over the loss of a pet for many people is equally as painful as grieving over the loss of a loved one. As a friend or acquaintance, there are many ways to show your support.
Depending on how close you are to the bereaved, here are a few ideas on how to comfort someone who lost a pet.
- Pay a visit – If you know the family or person well, paying a visit is a sincere way to show your support. They will appreciate that you have tried to travel and spend time with them.
- Make a phone call. Calling the person makes a wonderful personal connection. If you feel emotional, just allow them to talk and express their feelings. Say that you are there for them and will help in any any possible.
- Send a gift. Sending a thoughtful gift with a message is a wonderful way to show your support. Flowers are beautiful and uplifting. Plants and trees make long-term gifts. As they grow and flourish in the years to come, they will remind people of their special friends.
- Make a donation. If the person is a work colleague, a member of your community or an acquaintance, you may feel at a loss to express a personal opinion on their grief. Offering to donate to a pet charity, pet home or shelter is a wonderful expression of support. Send along a sympathy card and give them the name of the establishment you have chosen.
- Frame a photo. Do you have a photo of the person and their pet? Why not frame it, add a special message and offer as a gift. It is sure to be treasured for years to come.
- Get creative. Are you a creative person? Making a small garden ornament, a statue or a memorial plaque is a great personal gift that will continue to offer wonderful memories of their special pet.
