What to Say (and Not Say) to Someone Grieving a Pet

When someone you care about loses a beloved pet, finding the right words can feel impossible. You want to be supportive, but you might worry about saying the wrong thing — or not knowing what to say at all.

The truth is: there’s no perfect script. But there are ways to show up with compassion, thoughtfulness, and empathy. Here's what we've learned from the pet parents we support every day, and from our own experiences with loss.

💬 What To Say

Sometimes the simplest words go the furthest.

Here are a few supportive things to say to someone grieving a pet:

• “I’m so sorry. I know how much they meant to you.”

• “They were lucky to have you — and you were lucky to have them.”

• “I’m here for you if you want to talk or share a memory.”

• “They’ll always be part of your story.”

• “Your love gave them the best life.”

You don’t need to fix their sadness. Just acknowledging their grief — and saying their pet’s name — can be a gift in itself.

🛑 What Not to Say

Even well-meaning comments can unintentionally cause pain. These are a few phrases that may feel dismissive to someone mourning their pet:

• ❌ “At least it was just a dog/cat.”

• ❌ “Are you going to get another one?”

• ❌ “They were old anyway.”

• ❌ “Everything happens for a reason.”

It’s okay to be quiet. If you’re not sure what to say, a kind note or simply being there is enough.

🎁 Thoughtful Ways to Show You Care

Sometimes actions speak louder than words. Here are a few ways to support someone after pet loss:

• Light a candle or send one in their pet’s memory

• Share a favorite photo or memory you have of their pet

• Offer to visit or check in, even weeks later

• Send a pet loss gift, like a framed tribute or grief support item

• Write their pet’s name in a card or message — it means more than you think

👉 See our pet memorial photo frames & bundles

💛 Gentle Reminders

Grief doesn’t have a timeline. There’s no “moving on” — there’s just moving forward with love and memory.

If you know someone grieving a dog or any beloved animal, your kindness matters. Even the smallest gesture can bring a little peace to a very heavy heart.

Looking for a thoughtful way to support someone grieving a pet?
🖼️ Explore our handmade pet loss gifts & memorial frames
📩 Contact us to create something meaningful