Losing a Pet: How to Cope with Grief and Support Your Family

Losing a pet is one of the most painful experiences for any pet owner. They aren’t just animals; they are companions, members of the family, and a source of unconditional love. When they pass away, the grief can be overwhelming, especially when children are involved. Having lost our two Springer Spaniels within eight months of each other, I know how difficult it can be to say goodbye.

Here’s how to cope with the loss, ways to honour their memory, and how to help children understand and process their emotions.

Allow Yourself to Grieve 

Grief after losing a pet is completely natural. You may feel a mixture of sadness, guilt, or even relief if they were unwell. Give yourself permission to mourn in your own way—whether that’s crying, looking through old photos, or sharing stories about them.

Ways to Process Your Grief:

• Write a letter to your pet, expressing your love and gratitude.
• Create a photo album or scrapbook of their best moments.
• Talk to family and friends who understand the pain of pet loss.
• Don’t rush to “move on”—grief takes time, and everyone processes it differently.

Explaining Pet Loss to Children

For children, losing a pet may be their first experience with grief, making it important to explain the situation in a clear and compassionate way.

How to Talk to Kids About Pet Loss:

• Use Simple, Honest Language – Avoid phrases like “gone to sleep,” which can be confusing. Instead, gently explain that their pet has passed away and won’t be coming back.
• Encourage Questions – Let them ask questions and answer them as honestly as possible. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know” if they ask something difficult.
• Acknowledge Their Feelings – Let them know it’s okay to feel sad, angry, or even confused. Encourage them to talk about their emotions.
• Read Books About Pet Loss – Stories can help children understand grief. Books like The Rainbow Bridge or Goodbye Mog by Judith Kerr can be comforting.

Ways to Honour and Remember Your Pet

Finding ways to celebrate your pet’s life can bring comfort and help your family heal.

Meaningful Memorial Ideas:

• Create a Memory Box – Fill it with their favourite toy, collar, photos, and special keepsakes.
• Pet Portrait – Create and print a portrait of your pet
• Plant a Tree or Flowers – A living tribute that grows in their memory.
• Make a Paw Print or Clay Imprint – If possible, preserve their paw print as a lasting keepsake.
• Write a Letter or Poem – Expressing your love and gratitude for them can be therapeutic.
• Light a Candle – Set aside a moment each year to light a candle and remember them.

When Should You Get Another Pet?

There’s no right or wrong time to bring a new pet into your home—it’s a personal decision. Some families find comfort in adopting another pet quickly, while others need time to grieve. If children ask for another pet, remind them that while a new pet can bring joy, they won’t replace the one who has passed.

Final Thoughts After Losing a Pet

Losing a pet is heartbreaking, but remembering the love and happiness they brought can provide comfort during difficult times. Grief doesn’t have a timeline, and it’s important to support each other through it. Whether it’s through sharing memories, holding a small memorial, or simply talking about them, your pet’s love will always remain part of your family’s story.