Loss of Furry Friend

Scarlet Knight 14.5 yers old

This past week, I lost my best friend, my daughter, and my Princess. While barely having the words to convey all the emotions I have, I thought I could use the moment to help young friends who may be going through the same feelings and not understand them.

Saying Goodbye to a Furry Friend: 

Sometimes, we have to say goodbye to someone we love deeply, such as a pet. If your family has recently lost a pet, your preschooler might feel confused, sad, or even scared. That's okay. Big feelings are part of loving someone.

Where Did My Pet Go?

You might explain to your child like this:

"Our pet was very old/sick, and their body stopped working and it was time for them to rest forever. That means they won't come back, but we can still remember all the fun and love we shared."

Please keep it simple. 

It's Okay to Feel Sad

You can tell your child:

"It's okay to miss our pet. It's okay to cry. That means we loved them, and our hearts feel a little heavy. But guess what? Love never goes away. All the love we gave our pet and the love they gave us is still inside us—like a warm hug in our hearts."

Young children and adults alike often need reassurance that it's normal to feel sad or ask the same questions repeatedly. They may see you shed a few tears, and this is also normal and part of the family experience. 

Remembering Together

You might help your preschooler:

• Draw a picture of your pet.

• Make a "memory box" with photos or their collar.

• Tell a favorite funny story about your pet.

• Light a candle together and say, "We love you."

These may give comfort and help children understand that remembering someone is a special way to keep them close.

Pets Are Part of Our Family

Even though our pet is no longer here, they'll always be part of our family story. Continue to speak about the happy or even naughty times that you shared with your pet.

By celebrating happy memories, you show your child that it's okay to feel both sad and happy when thinking about someone we loved, which can help you feel hopeful about the healing process.

The most important thing you can do is be present, answer gently, and remind the little ones: they are safe, they are loved, and it's okay to feel.