What to say to someone who has lost their pet: Caring Quotes & Messages of Support 

The sadness felt when you lose a pet is like no other, and when someone you know is experiencing that grief, it can be so hard to watch their heartbreak. So, whether they’ve lost their childhood dog, a rescue kitty or one of their exotic reptiles, it’s important to find the right words to help them as they deal with their pet loss.   

And, if you want to extend your sympathies, a handwritten Loss of Pet Card with a happy memory of their pet and a heartfelt message is a lovely way to let them know you care.  

No matter how you choose to reach out, being kind, acknowledging their loss and listening to their grief will help them cope and feel supported. But if you’re feeling unsure about what to say, our Hallmark writers have come up with some sympathetic suggestions to get you started,   

Want to skip to the section you need? Simply click one of the links below!

• How to comfort someone who has lost their pet
• Simple Pet Loss Messages
• What to say to someone who has lost their cat
• What to say to someone who has lost their dog
• Pet sympathy messages for kids
• When an elderly pet dies
• When a pet passes after an illness
• When a pet dies unexpectedly
• When a beloved pet has to be put to sleep
• A few key ways to personlise your pet sympathy message

How to comfort someone who has lost their pet

There are a few things to consider when someone loses their pet, the main point being how to comfort them. Here are a few ways you can make them feel a little bit better in their loss,

• Reach out. A handwritten note, a mini tribute on social media or a text to say you’re thinking of them, anything will be better than silence. And knowing they’re not alone will make them feel a lot better in their grief.  

• Reassure them. When a pet dies, it can be easy to stress about whether you did everything right, if their life was well lived… Remind your friend that they gave their pet the best life possible, and that they were a wonderful pet parent.  

• Give them time. Grief is always felt differently. Avoid questions like, "Will you be getting another one?", or statements like, "oh well, at least you can replace them."  

• Share memories. Recall a funny moment with or sweet memory of their pet and let them talk about what made their bond together so special.  

Simple Pet Loss Messages

Saying something simple is better than saying nothing at all. Simple can still be sincere and heartfelt. Find inspiration in our simple pet loss quotes and, don’t forget, you can adjust these to suit your own needs.  

• “Pets are like family and losing them is so hard. Sending lots of love your way.”  

• “It’s just not fair that pets don’t live longer. Hoping your memories with [Sooty] bring you happiness whenever you need it.”  

• “Hoping you find peace in all the happy memories of your [sweet, goofy boy Milo].”  

• “So sorry for your loss. [Buddy] was such a good [dog], and you are such a good [mum].”  

• “I’m going to miss [Pepper], too. You’re in my thoughts today.”  

• “Sending you love as you grieve the loss of your furry family member.”  

• “When a pet dies, there’s a quietness in the home that aches. Our hearts ache for you, and we are so sorry for your loss.”  

• “I’m so sorry to hear about [Archie]. Hope there are smiles through your tears as you remember all the moments [he] made furrier, funnier and happier.”  

What to say to someone who has lost their cat

Cat owners will always have a special place in their heart for their furry feline. They will cherish the memories of their little cuddles, reminisce on every sleeping photo, and will even miss their kitty getting underneath their feet at any inconvenient moment!  

• “[Tigger] gave you joy and happiness no other [kitty] could. You’ll always be blessed with the love [he] brought to your life.”  

• “Pets are such an important part of our lives. So grateful you and [Luna] got to share yours.”  

• “What [Sweetie] meant to you doesn’t change and it never goes away. Hoping there’s comfort in all your happy memories.”  

• “I know [Wotsit] wasn’t just a [cat], [he] was family. My heart and hugs go out to you.”  

• “Cats aren’t just pets, they run the show. [Smokey] couldn’t have had better staff than you. I’m so sorry for your loss.”  

What to say to someone who has lost their dog

Dog owners always share a special bond with man's best friend, from taking them to puppy training classes, their favourite walks or sharing their favorite drive-thru treat, there will be a hole in their heart a good dog should be.

• “You two were kindred spirits. And I think [she’s] with you now, watching over you and happily [tail wagging] by your side.”  

• “Even though [Oscar] is gone, his spirit still sits on your lap and demands belly rubs.”  

• “There are things only [dog mums/dads] understand. I get it, and my heart aches for you. Sending love.”  

• “Losing a pet isn’t something we just get over. Hope you can find some space and take some time to be kind to yourself right now.”  

• “The day [Rambo] became part of your family, everything changed for the better. May the love you felt that day and every day after fill your heart as you adjust to life without them.”  

Pet sympathy messages for kids

When a family pet passes away, it may well be a child’s first experience with death, and that can be a pretty big deal. Help them to navigate their way through their grief in a way that’s appropriate for their age and use the relationship they had with their pet to talk about the loss. Don’t be afraid to let them know that you’re sad, too. Just be careful not to put too much of an emotional load on little shoulders.   

• “Even though [he’s] not here anymore, you’ll always carry [Rex] in your heart and your memories. If you want to talk about it, I’m right here.”  

• “I’m so sorry your friend [Harry] died. If I could hug you with [4 paws] right now I would.”  

• “I hope you know [Fluffy] loved you as much as you loved [her]. I do, too.”   

• “It’s okay to be sad. [Rolo] was a really [cool] pet, and I know you’ll miss him.”  

What to say when a child loses a pet

Check in with a parent to see how they’ve talked to their child about the death of their child’s pet, and then send a message that will help support them. Start with a few basics:   

• It’s important to be honest with children. Use age-appropriate language and details to acknowledge that death is part of life and is permanent.   

• Don’t be afraid to show your emotions, and let the child know whatever feelings they’re having are okay to feel.   

• If you knew the pet, share your favourite memories, stories, or photos with the family to make the child feel like their grief is shared.   

• Remember kids can be very literal, so try to avoid phrases like “put to sleep” or “gone away”, or any other euphemisms for death that might confuse them.  

When an elderly pet dies

Even when you know it’s coming, it doesn’t make it any easier to lose your senior friend. Be extra kind and gentle with your words, especially if their pet had been in their life a long time.  

• “My heart is breaking for you. Wishing you peace as you grieve [Poppy]… she was such an extraordinary [horse].”  

• “What a long, love-filled life you gave [Cooper]. You were so lucky to have found each other.”  

• “I know you wished [Cola] could have lived forever. But you made every moment count with your unconditional love.”  

• “It will take time to get used to [Buzz’s] absence, but one day, I hope the memories you have will bring you joy instead of sadness.”  

• “You are so lucky to have shared so much of your life with such an amazing companion.”  

• “Losing a companion like [Shadow] is so hard, [he’s] been a part of so many memories and so many changes in your life. I’m thinking of you and am here to look at all the pictures and hear all the stories when you’re ready.”  

When a pet passes from an illness

A pet might pass away after an illness, and whether that illness was a chronic condition from birth or something quick and silent, it still steals that time away. When an owner has invested their time, money, and a big part of their heart to care for their sick pet, remind them that they did their best.  

• “You gave [Storm] such a great life. You were the best dog [dad] he could’ve had.”  

• “You made [Tizzy’s] final days as comfortable as possible—and in the end, the love you showed helped [her] find peace.”  

• “You did so much to give [Jessie] the amazing care [she] deserved. [She] was a great [cat,] and you are the most loving [cat lady].”  

• “I hope you’ll take comfort in knowing you did everything you could—and you did it with love and empathy.”  

• “You always went above and beyond to give [Floyd] the healthiest, happiest life.”  

• “How lucky [Mossy] was to be cared for by someone like you.”  

• “You are a true champion for every animal that comes into your care. I hope you know that your big heart does not go unnoticed.”  

• “It takes a very special person to care for the hurt, vulnerable and innocent. Know that your love is an amazing legacy.”  

When a pet dies unexpectedly

An unexpected death can be especially heartbreaking and whether their pet was a young, relatively recent addition to the family or a faithful elderly companion from childhood, such a sudden loss can be agonising… And it’s completely okay to acknowledge how unfair that is.  

• “This sucks and really isn’t fair. I’m so sorry your sweet [Suki] is gone, and I’m here when you need a shoulder.”  

• “It’s hard to let our fur-babies go, especially when it’s so sudden. My whole heart is with you.”  

• “I’m not as good at [cuddles] or [nose-kisses] as [Wilbur], but I’m willing to do anything to give you comfort right now.”  

• “You and [Presley] packed so much love in such a short time. Thinking of you today.”  

• “The time you had with [Wednesday] wasn’t enough, but you filled every moment of [her] life with love.”  

When a beloved pet has to be put to sleep

So often, the last kind act we do for our pet is the hardest. Give your friend extra reassurance and comfort.  

• “The decision to let a beloved pet go is such a hard one. Sharing in your sadness right now.”  

• “I’m so sad for you, but grateful [Louise] isn’t hurting anymore, and that [she] had you with [her] in [her] last moments.”  

• “There’s nothing easy about being responsible, loving, and sensitive. That’s why those things are so worthwhile and why they make such a difference.”  

• “Sometimes the right thing sucks, but it’s still the right thing. Thinking of you.”  

• “You did the last kind thing for your best friend. I’m here if you need to talk.”  

• “I know you’re hurting from your hard choice, but you made it because you cared so much for [Jupiter]. You’re a good human.”  

• “[Zeke] felt love and security at the end. That’s because of you.”  

A few key ways to personalise your pet sympathy message

Personalising your pet sympathy message adds that little bit of support that'll help them through their bereavement, and it'll remind them how they're not alone in their grief. 

• Make sure to use their pet’s name and the type of animal they were in your note.  

• Include details about their behaviour, favourite things, routines, funny habits, or quirks. 

• Talk about the pet in the way that your friend did: fur-baby, snuggle buddy, handsome boy, Princess...  

• Don’t be afraid to mix the serious, the sweet, and the silly, a pet’s personality often combines all three.

Losing a pet, from the classic fluffy friends to less cuddly, but just as loveable, turtles, snakes and more, can cause the worst kind of heartbreak. We hope our words can help you to deliver some comfort and perhaps inspire you to write something heartfelt of your own.