Light a PawWhat to say when someone's pet dies
When you don't know what to say, here are short, kind messages you can send right away. Tap "Copy" to paste them anywhere.
Short messages
- I'm so sorry. I know how much you loved them.
- Thinking of you today. They were so lucky to have you.
- No need to reply. I just wanted you to know I'm here.
- They had the best life with you.
- It's okay to be completely heartbroken today.
- Sending you a big hug. They're not in pain anymore.
If you knew the pet
- I'll never forget how they ran to the door every time I came over.
- They always made me feel so welcome. Such a sweet soul.
- Your house won't feel the same without them. I'll miss them too.
- I cried looking at their photos. They were one of a kind.
For a pet who lived a long life
- All those years together, every single day. I can't imagine how big the space feels.
- A long life full of love. That's the best thing anyone could give them.
- They knew you were there right to the end. That matters so much.
- You were their whole world, for their whole life.
When it was sudden
- I'm so sorry. It happened so fast. Please don't blame yourself.
- There was nothing you could have known. They knew how loved they were.
- Not getting to say goodbye makes it even harder. I'm here if you want to talk.
Days or weeks later
- How are you doing? I've been thinking about them.
- I just wanted to say their name. I hope you're okay.
- Missing them is normal, however long it's been. I'm always happy to talk about them.
- I walked past their favourite spot today and thought of you both.
For a card
- Every day with you was a gift to them. With deepest sympathy.
- Such a small body, such a big love. Remembering them with you.
- Their paw prints will stay on your heart for a long time.
- They say grief is love with nowhere to go. Sending you so much love.
- Rest easy, sweet one. You were so loved.
Something you can do
- Can I light a candle for them? What was their name again?
- Would you send me a few photos? I'd love to remember them with you.
- Fancy a walk next week? Their favourite route, if you'd like.
What not to say
- "It was just a dog." To them, it was family.
- "You can get another one." No one replaces them.
- "If only you'd gone to the vet sooner…" They are already blaming themselves.
- "Isn't it time to move on?" Grief has no deadline.
Instead of words
Say the pet's name. Many people long to hear it again. Making them a place in an online memorial, or lighting a candle in one they already have, can mean more than any message.
Give them a place to be remembered
Put their photo on the wall of a quiet 3D memorial hall, light a candle and leave flowers. Free, no sign-up.
🕯️ Make a place for your pet