Instructions
Expressing Sympathy
Be thoughtful in your word choice when talking on the phone, in an email, or in person. Sometimes the most comforting sentence to say is: "I have no idea what to say, but I am so sorry for your loss." Another consoling sentiment could be: "I don't know how you feel. I know you are devastated, and I'm so sorry."
Send a sympathy gift: a card, flowers, gift basket, or chocolates. Make a meal or cookies. There are many pet sympathy cards available, but any sympathy card will work. It may be the only card the pet owner receives.
Make a donation in the pet's memory. If the pet suffered from a particular illness, make a donation to a pet foundation specializing in that disease. If you cannot find an organization appropriate for the animal's illness, make a donation to the pet owner's local animal shelter or to his or her favorite charity. It's the gesture that matters--not who receives the donation.
Listen. Being there to listen may be all the pet owner needs. According to Recover-from-Grief.com, "That is what he needs most right now, quiet support. It's called 'therapeutic silence.' " (See Reference 1). Offering a sincere ear, a shoulder to cry on, and even a hug encourages healing. Remember not to dismiss the loss until the person works through his or her own personal grieving process.
How to Express Sympathy for Pet Loss
Expressing sympathy for a pet's loss may be confusing if you have never experienced a pet's loss. "Society as a whole generally does not acknowledge the significance of pet loss, nor understand the profound grief a pet owner might feel," states Recover-from-grief.com (see Reference 1). Pet owners undergo the same grieving process as with any family member's loss because they view their pets as a family member or even as a child. When a pet passes, it can be just as devastating as a person's passing. It's very important to validate the person's loss. Express sympathy in the same manner as you would with any type of loss.