10 Gentle Ways To Help Your Pet Through The Loss Of Their Friend

If one of your pets says goodbye to the world, the other one’s life changes completely, just like ours does. As they sit in a corner and wait by food bowls that won’t be used again, it’s heart-wrenching. Here are some gentle ways to let your grieving pet find comfort and healing. Write the next chapter of their story, filled with love and the promise of peace ahead.

Honor Their Need To Search

Your pet may wander the house looking for their friend, checking all their favorite spots. Don’t discourage this natural behavior. Walk with them, speak softly, and let them process in their own way. These moments of searching are part of their understanding that their companion is gone.

Keep Familiar Routines

Even though your heart is heavy, try to maintain regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions. Your grieving pet finds deep comfort in these daily constants. When everything feels different, but their dinner still comes at 5 PM, it works like an anchor to hold onto.

Give Extra Love, But Respect Space

Some pets need more cuddles and attention during grief, while others might want quiet time alone. Watch their cues. When they approach, offer a comforting belly rub or gentle ear scratch. Those who retreat may just need quiet reassurance that you’re there when they’re.

Preserve Some Memory Items

Consider keeping one or two items that smell like their departed friend. It can be a favorite pillow or toy. Some pets find comfort in these familiar scents. Watch how your pet responds, though. If the items seem to cause more distress, it’s okay to quietly put them away.

Adjust To Their Appetite Changes

Just like humans, grieving pets might eat less. Keep offering meals at regular times, but don’t force it. Sit with them while they eat, encourage them softly, and maybe even hand-feed for a few days. Their appetite will return gradually as their heart begins to heal.

Create New Joys

While respecting their mourning phase and processes, try introducing soft new pleasures, perhaps a sunny window seat, a special new toy, or a cozy blanket. These aren’t replacements for their lost friend but rather small comforts to fill the empty parts of their life.

Understand The Severity Of It

Watch for signs of depression—excessive sleeping, loss of interest in toys or walks, or unusual clinginess. Your pet can’t say, “I’m sad,” but their behavior speaks volumes. Sometimes, all you can do is acknowledge their pain and let them process it while keeping an eye on their health and mood. If it’s too much for them to handle, you might need professional help.

Let Them Engage With Good Friends

You should also try to arrange small playdates with well-trained, familiar pet friends when your pet seems ready. The presence of another companion can likely provide them with the comfort they need. But follow your pet’s lead. If they’re not interested, that’s perfectly okay, too.

Encourage Gentle Exercise

Movement can help lift your pet’s spirits, even in grief. Take them for a slow, peaceful walk, or engage them in light play if they’re willing. Exercise releases stress and helps them regain a sense of normalcy, offering a natural way to process their emotions.

Hold Space For Healing

Remember that every pet grieves differently, and there’s no timeline for healing. Some may seem to bounce back quickly, while others take months to adjust. Your constant presence, gentle efforts, and emotional support will help them live through this tender time.