When our pets pass away, many of us feel we’ve lost a precious family member, and sometimes our only companion. Our pets offer love, loyalty, and company, often becoming a constant presence in our daily lives. But when they’re no longer there, the sense of loss can feel overwhelming.
Understanding pet grief
The grieving process has several stages and often begins with a sense of shock or disbelief. You might find yourself forgetting that your pet is no longer there and still expect to see them in their favourite spot. And all of a sudden, your home can feel very empty.
These initial feelings develop and can lead to pain, anger, and even depression. This is when support from friends and family can really help, so we always recommend talking to your loved ones about how you feel. The people around us can make a big difference in helping us cope. Remember, you don’t have to face it alone.
When to seek professional support
If you feel you don’t have anyone to talk to about your grief and loss, you might want to consider speaking to a counsellor or contacting a local support organisation. If you’re finding things especially difficult, speak to your doctor, as they may be able to put you in touch with a bereavement counsellor.
Support networks that could help:
Always reach out for support, as talking can make a real difference, especially if you’re struggling to cope.
- Blue Cross Pet Loss Support
- Call: 0800 096 6606
- Cats Protection Paws to Listen
- Call: 0800 024 9494
Ways to honour your pet's memory
As you move towards accepting the loss of your pet, try to focus on the love, joy, and memories you shared.
People grieving the loss of their pet might choose to hold a small funeral or a memorial, or plant something special in their memory. Others find comfort in creating a scrapbook or album filled with photos or writing a letter to say goodbye. Some choose to donate to an animal charity in their name as a lasting tribute.
If you want to celebrate your pet’s life by helping others, you can make an in-memory donation to PDSA. Your heartfelt gift will ensure their legacy lives on and help poorly pets get the vet care they urgently need in our Pet Hospitals. Thank you.
Donate to PDSA in memory of your pet today.
Pet bereavement FAQs
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How long does it take to get over losing a pet?
Grieving the loss of a pet is deeply personal, and there’s no fixed timeline. Some people begin to feel more settled after a few weeks, while others may take months or longer.
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Is it normal to grieve a pet like a person?
For many, pets are a huge part of the family. The bond we share with them is incredibly strong, so it’s completely normal to grieve a pet just as deeply as you would a person.
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Should I get another pet straight away?
Only when you're ready and able to love and look after one properly. Some people find comfort in welcoming a new pet soon after, while others need more time. It’s a very personal decision, and there’s no rush.
More help with pet bereavement
Coping with the loss of a pet is never easy. There’s no ‘right’ way to grieve, and what works for one person may not help another. You may never feel truly ‘over’ their death, but your sadness will become more manageable with time.
Above all, be kind to yourself. Healing takes time, but the love you shared with your pet will always be part of you. Your pet was with you for part of your life, but you were their whole life, and that bond leaves a lasting imprint.
For more guidance and support, including how to help children understand grief, you can visit the advice pages on our Pet Health Hub: Dealing with grief.