How do I console someone who's pet has just died?

Question

Other than just listening........what things can I say to make him feel better?

Answer 1

Tell him to focus on the great memories he has from the time he spent with the pet, instead of focusing on the death itself.

Memories is something that can never be taken away from him.

Answer 2

Maybe go over and give him a hug.  Also let him talk about his pet and let him remember the good times they had together.   Getting another pet will also help in a few weeks.  Good luck.  Just having a friend like you that cares means a lot to him now too.

Answer 3

Unless you can truely understand the feelings by having had the experience yourself, sometimes it's just best to do nothing but let them be to mourn.

Some people just don't understand the attachment others have with animals, and how the death of a loved pet can be like the death of a human family member to them.  

Remind them to remember the good times.

Answer 4

Listening is the best thing. Also reminders that it won't always hurt this much is helpful. Also get them to talk a little about their memories of their pet - will make them cry but it's about working through the pain! If the loss is very recent, helping them decide how they want to remember their pet is important - burial, cremation, scattering ashes? Planting something or making a grave to remember them?

Rainbow Bridge is indeed a lovely poem, though it will also make the bereaved cry - I lost my cat two years ago and still can't read that poem through without welling up!

Chalice

Answer 5

Google "Rainbow bridge" - you will get plenty of help to console your friend

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