Losing a pet is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a person can go through. For many, pets are family—providing unconditional love, companionship, and years of cherished memories. If you have a friend or family member who is preparing to say goodbye to their beloved pet or has recently experienced a loss, you may be wondering how to offer support. While there’s no way to take away their grief, your kindness and presence can make a meaningful difference during this difficult time.
Written by Dr. Chelsea McGivney, Caring Pathways General Manager
Understanding the Options for Saying Goodbye
Before offering support, it helps to understand the different ways families can say goodbye to their pets. Many pet owners may not be aware of the compassionate end-of-life care options available to them, including:
Palliative and Comfort Care (Sometimes Referred to as Hospice Care)
Some pets, especially those with chronic or terminal illnesses, can benefit from palliative and comfort care. This approach focuses on maximizing comfort, managing pain, and improving quality of life for as long as possible, and until the family is ready to make the final decision to say goodbye.
Quality of Life Assessments
These assessments, often conducted by veterinarians who specialize in end-of-life care, help pet owners determine their pet’s comfort level and when humane euthanasia may be the kindest choice.
In-Home Euthanasia
Many families find comfort in allowing their pets to pass peacefully in their own homes, surrounded by loved ones. Services like those provided by Caring Pathways offer a gentle, dignified transition in a familiar and loving environment.
By being informed about these options, you can help guide your friend in making the best choice for their pet and themselves. If you have experience with in-home euthanasia, sometimes sharing your impressions of that experience can give a friend confidence that this may be the right choice for them and their family member.
Ways to Support a Friend BEFORE Saying Goodbye
Be Present and Listen: Grief begins even before the loss itself. If your friend is struggling with the decision to say goodbye, offer a listening ear without judgment. Let them share their fears, emotions, and memories. Simply saying, “I’m here for you,” can provide immense comfort.
Offer Practical Help: When a pet’s health is declining, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming. Offering to help in tangible ways can go a long way in demonstrating your support.
Examples include:
- Accompanying them to veterinary appointments or quality-of-life assessments.
- Bringing them meals or helping with household chores.
- Assisting with other pets in the home or even offering to watch their children during veterinary appointments or other times when your friend may need to focus on their senior pet.
Respect Their Decisions: Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is deeply personal. Your friend may struggle with guilt, uncertainty, or second-guessing their decision. Remind them that they are making the most loving choice for their pet, and reassure them that their feelings are valid.
Create a Memory Together: Encourage your friend to celebrate their pet’s life before saying goodbye.
Some ways to do this include:
- Taking a special “last adventure,” creating a Bucket List, or enjoying a favorite treat together.
- Creating a scrapbook or a memory jar with photos and notes.
- Having a quiet moment of gratitude, reflecting on the love shared.
Ways to Support a Friend AFTER Saying Goodbye
Acknowledge Their Loss: One of the simplest yet most meaningful ways to support a grieving pet owner is by acknowledging their pain. A heartfelt message, a sympathy card, or even a small token—like a candle or a framed photo of their pet—can let them know you care. If your friend is having an especially difficult time coping with the loss of their pet, you could suggest that they meet with a grief counselor or attend a pet loss support group.
Check In Regularly: Grief doesn’t disappear after a few days or weeks. Continue to check in with your friend over time, especially on significant days like their pet’s birthday or the anniversary of their passing. A simple text saying, “Thinking of you today,” can mean the world.
Help Honor Their Pet’s Memory: Everyone grieves differently, but many pet owners find comfort in memorializing their pet in a meaningful way. Encourage your friend to find a way to honor their pet, such as:
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Planting a tree or flowers in their pet’s memory.
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Donating to an animal rescue organization in their pet’s name.
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Creating a keepsake, such as a paw print impression or a custom piece of art.
Be Patient and Understanding: Grief is unpredictable and unique to each person. Your friend may need time before they are ready to talk about their loss. Others may want to share stories about their pet often. Let them grieve in their own way and at their own pace. Sometimes sitting with them in silence is exactly what they may need at any given moment.
A Final Thought
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but having the support of friends and loved ones can make the journey a little less lonely. Whether it’s offering a listening ear, helping with practical needs, or simply acknowledging their loss, your presence and compassion can be a powerful source of comfort.
If you or someone you know is facing this difficult decision, Caring Pathways is here to help. Our team provides in-home hospice care, quality-of-life assessments, and peaceful euthanasia services, ensuring pets and their families receive compassionate support during this tender time.
For more information, please reach out to our caring team today to learn more about the services we offer to help walk with families who may be facing this difficult decision.