PET LOSS PHRASES FOR PET PARENTS & CHILDREN - DETAILED DOS & DONT'S & PET GRIEF CREATIVE GIFTS
- Jeannette
- Jul 3, 2025
- 8 min read
Updated: Jul 12, 2025
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PET LOSS TRIGGERS EMOTIONAL ESCALATIONS OF MIXED RESPONSES & REACTIONS
MIXED RESPONSES & REACTIONS EITHER FROM THE ONE GRIEVING LOSS OF THEIR COMPANION ANIMAL OR THE ONE EXPRESSING THEIR CONDOLENCES.
DEFINE GRIEF: A HEAVINESS OF HEART THAT BRINGS A PERSON DOWN TARGETING THE EMOTIONS AND WILL - VERY INTENSE SADNESS - DEEP LINGERING SORROW - AN EXPERIENCE OF DEEP EMOTIONAL PAIN.
DEATH REMAINS AN ENEMY & SEASONS OF GRIEF IS REAL BUT NOT FINAl.
GRIEF SUBMITTED TO GOD IS A GATEWAY TO HEALING & HOPE.
HEART TO HEART DISCLOSURE - LET'S DISCUSS DEATH
Expressing your condolences is never easy. In fact, it is extremely uncomfortable. Due to the nature of what just took place in someones life can be torturous and puzzling. We are schooled sending familiar phrases in a text, commenting on social media platforms, or calling to comfort with classic responses. However, in reference to the loss of a pet, um...... people just don't get it. All I keep hearing is, keep it moving, nothing to see here. The pet-connected parent or child is then left to suffer in silence, fend for themselves, and sort out all these feelings for themselves. Thankfully, grief submitted to God is a gateway to healing & hope.
EXAMPLES: HOW NOT TO EXPRESS SINCERE SYMPATHY
DO NOT SAY THIS - [ 35 ] PHRASES
1. I hope you're not in debt due to this loss?
2. It was probably for the best, it was their time.
3. It was God's will.
4. When are you getting a new pet?
5. You will be fine, it was just a chicken, [dog, cat, etc.]
6. Go on vacation now that you are freed up.
7. They had a good life; now it is your turn to go on with your life and enjoy.
8. This was eventually going to happen, so get over it.
9. Oh well, thats life.
10. Let's just make light of this situation and tell each other jokes.
11. It is what it is, what can you do.
13. God needs and angel.
14. It is all for the best, at least they are no longer in pain.
15. Get another pet, you'll feel better. Besides, let me give you tips on how I got over it.
16. Relax, let's buy a new pet this week to replace him/her.
17. Why are you so upset, it's just an animal and who told you to get so attached?
18. Look at the bright side, It can always be worse.
19. Now get a hold of yourself, you are upsetting the children & the neighbors will hear you.
20. Don't make a scene, get a grip, the lives of your loved ones are more important.
21. Honestly, where did you go wrong with this?
22. You should know better, why are you grieving over this?
23. You should have known this would eventually happen what is the matter with you?
24. See this as a Blessing in disguise.
25. I will pray for you and sooner or later you will get over it.
26. Time will heal your loss, besides we all suffer.
27. Come on, turn your mourning into dancing and rejoice.
28. [Pet's name] was old, forget about it and move on.
29. I don't know what to say, so let's change the subject.
30. I'm sorry, this makes me feel uncomfortable you feeling this way. I don't have pets, nor do I want them so I can not relate, just being honest, I'm sure you understand?
31. Wow! oh well, this to shall pass.
32. Go get a cup a tea, you will feel better in the morning
33. Put your chin up and look at the glass half full.
34. Don't let this get the best of you, shake it off, be an example, it's not the end of the world.
35. All time Classic: I'm so sorry, let me know if you need anything.
EXAMPLES: HOW TO EXPRESS SINCERE SYMPATHY
DO SAY THIS [ 20 ] PHRASES
1. I heard [pet's name] just died. We all know how much you loved [pet's name]. The joy you experienced and expressed when with them was so priceless the witness.
2. You are not alone, I too will grieve with you. Give me a list of things you need done to help you while you recover and heal from the shock.
3. [Pet's name] was a part of your family, therefore, [pet's name] is part of our family and we will miss him/her together.
4. You and [pet's name] obviously had a special unbreakable bond we cherish and respect that precious relationship.
5. I'm so sorry for your loss, I'm going to cook your favorite and make sure you have something to eat for the week and not have to be bothered with that.
6. I just found out what happened, what is on your to/do list that i can help with, so you can rest from this grieving impact?
7. Remember, your memories of [pet's name] will be special to us as well. Therefore, when you share your sweet stories we are here to sympathize with you.
8. The passing of your pet has impacted so many lives for the better, I can not wait to meet them in Heaven.
9. We know your friendship, care and love for [pet's name] meant so much to [him/her]. I can't wait to hear [pet's name] share [his/her] sweet stories in Heaven.
10. Loss of a family member is not easy. However, this family member was one we know you shared a unique relationship with that is very personal to you with many beautiful memories.
11. [Pet's name] was so special, adorable and lovable. We all miss having [him/her] around us as well.
12. [Pet's name] will always have a special place in our hearts as well.
13. During this difficult time, please know we will continue to pray you through this.
14. [Pet's name] brought so much joy into our lives as well, so we understand why they were so special in many ways.
15. Let me know your schedule, i'm stopping by to support with food, cleaning, and or financial support. I am here to help.
16. I'm sending a text to check up on you. I am aware every day can bring different challenges so how can i support during this sensitive season.
17. You are not a bother, so whenever you want to call to talk, cry or pray, this is what we are here for.
18. Pain is tough, grief is real but thank God it is not final. So let us get through this together. Remember better together - bestie!
19. Lord have mercy, another family member. So sorry for your loss, we know each member of the family had a special place in your heart. Tell me what you need to help with the transition during this time.
20. I am aware that we all deal with loss differently, so how can I better serve you during this sensitive time?
HOW TO ENGAGE WITH CHILDREN GRIEVING THE LOSS OF THEIR PET
TRUE STORY: 8 year old Bobbie Alexandria & her precious pet dog Scruffy shared a beautiful bond. Dad, Mom and her sister Sofia, all loved and adopted Scruffy as another member of their family. A pet-connection addition to a family, amplifies an atmosphere to levels of joy that can not be explained but only experienced. Attachments to animals, as such, is a gift that fills our hearts with immense gratitude.
Sadly to say, little Scruffy's life was cut short due to a diagnosis of Lyme disease. The Veterinarian's final verdict was he only has a few days to live. At that point, Scruffy was taken home to spend his final moments with a child and family who loved him beyond words. Scruffy, breathed his last breath, and died.
EXAMPLES: HOW TO ENGAGE WITH CHILDREN & ENCOURAGE OPEN COMMUNICATION
DO SAY THIS [ 10 ] PHRASES
1. ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR EMOTIONS: Oh sweetness it's ok to cry and feel sad that [pet's name] not here with us. We all know [pet's name] was your best friend. You were [pet's name] best buddy and you did a great job taking care of him/her.
2. I understand you are angry. No it is not fair, I feel the same way. What just happened does hurt. Let us pray and ask God for help. Let's do this together, you are not alone, we will get through this together. Allowing them to express emotions is healthy. Grief-related emotions if suppressed can lead to physical, emotional and mental sickness.
3. TELL THE TRUTH & GIVE THEM HOPE: Did you know when [pet's name] breathed [his/her] last breath, that it was a sign from God letting us know their spirit lifted and they are now in Heaven waiting to greet you when it is your turn to go.
4. I'm sad too that [pet's name] is no longer with us down here, but the Good News is all our Pets get to go to Heaven. Our pets already know when we go, we get to live with them forever!!! Wow this gives us something wonderful to look forward to.
5. Remember, all the amazing stories we heard about people going to Heaven and coming back to share with us that all the animals will welcome us in and embrace us. Then you will get to lead them in a parade Isaiah 11:6
6. SHARING IS CARING: I loved your beautiful furry baby too, so share some of your favorite memories.
7. In honor of [pet's name] tell me funny stories of how they did silly things to make you laugh.
8. COMFORT: Remember who else is your best friend? The Holy Spirit's responsibility is to comfort us in time of sadness, and when we cry, because we miss [pet's name] our best friend. The Holy Spirit will hug you, encourage you, and help you because of what just happened.
9. OBSERVE & BE ALERT: The grieving process is different for everyone regardless of age. However, be attentive and alert, if it is prolonged, intensifies or escalates towards toxic behavior patterns. Thankfully, solutions of success are always available when applying wisdom. A community of like minded believers who share and care always offer a wealth of healing.
10. BE SENSITIVE & PURSUE SUCCESS: The topic of a memorial and getting a new pet are extremely sensitive topics of discussion during this grieving process. Consider their feelings, continue to support, educate and create environments for consistent healthy heart to heart communication.
EXAMPLES: HOW TO SUPPORT WITH MEANINGFUL CREATIVE GIFTS
[12] CREATIVE GIFTS
1. Make a collage of precious pictures or their favorite one & insert it in a beautiful custom frame. A photo book is always a great memorial gift and another idea of choice.
2. Keychains or charm with their favorite saying and or picture in memory of their family member.
3. A teeshirt, cap or cup in keeping with the memory
4. Write a poem and frame it
5. Make a video presentation sharing beautiful memories their favorite song, along with others commenting their compassion and or fond memories they experienced with your pet.
6. A memorial necklace or heart that is personalized with their pet's name.
7. Sympathy cards can be designed in so many beautiful ways for them to frame on the wall.
8. Help with the plans of the memorial service and or burial.
9. Gift them with a personalized pet memorial stone in honor of their fur baby.
10. Find a local artist who specializes in pet portraits.
11. Surprise them by sending through the mail a beautiful rose bush of their choice or a fruit tree in memory of their pet they can plant that will always release healing memories.
12. Donating to their favorite charity of choice can be extremely honoring.
LESSON LEARNED
Psalm 36:6 NLT. "Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike. O LORD."
Psalm 145:9. The" Lord is good to all, and his mercies are over all that he has made."
You care for people and animals alike..... The Lord is good to all, and his mercies are over all that he has made.... There are dimensions of God that is beyond understanding. His loving-kindness displays a side of his character that leaves me speechless. This is a wake up call for his people to leave all, lay down their loyalty and salute the savior of all creation with never ending gratitude for setting us free. Jesus, God's Lamb, I love You!!!
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