Pet Loss Support (UK)
UK pet bereavement services, advice for the first few days, and resources for children and families.
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999 or 112.
UK support services
Contact one of the services below if you would like to talk about losing your pet. Our UK pet bereavement support directory has more information.
Cats Protection: Paws to Listen
Free telephone support from trained volunteer listeners. Call 0800 024 94 94, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, excluding bank holidays.
The Ralph Site
Pet bereavement information, online community support and memorial resources.
Coping in the first 24 hours
Try to eat, drink water and rest. Ask someone you trust to help with calls or practical arrangements if they feel too much to manage on your own.
You may feel sad, numb, angry, guilty or relieved, and those feelings can change. If you need to talk, the services above can help.
Read our guide to the first week after losing a pet.
What grief can feel like
Losing a pet changes daily routines as well as how you feel. You may still expect to hear them, look for them in their usual spot, or find sleep, appetite and concentration affected.
Grief can vary from day to day. Some people also feel relief after caring for a pet through a long illness. If you’re struggling with daily life, speak to your GP.
Why losing a pet can hurt so much.
Euthanasia and guilt
It’s common to question the timing or replay the appointment after a pet is euthanised. If you’re unsure about what happened or why a decision was made, ask your vet to talk it through with you.
These guides cover the decision, the appointment and feelings of guilt afterwards:
- Euthanasia guilt: did I do the right thing?
- Deciding when it’s time
- What to expect at a euthanasia appointment
Children and pet loss
Use simple, honest language and leave time for questions. Avoid saying a pet has “gone to sleep”, which can confuse younger children. They may return to the same questions or move between sadness and ordinary play.
A drawing, a letter or choosing a favourite photo can give them a way to say goodbye.
Supporting someone else who is grieving
Tell them you’re sorry and listen if they want to talk. Use their pet’s name, share a memory, or offer practical help such as a meal, a school run or company while they make arrangements.
Remembering your pet
You might keep a collar and favourite toy in a memory box, frame a photograph, make an album, or visit a walking spot you shared. Donating to an animal rescue is another way to remember them.
If you would like a keepsake to wear, you can browse our memorial jewellery.
For veterinary practices
You’re welcome to share this page with clients.
- Suggested link text: Pet loss support and UK helplines
- URL:
https://furandforever.com/pages/pet-loss-support-uk - Description: UK pet bereavement services and advice for families.
Pet loss questions
Is it normal to feel devastated after losing a pet?
Losing a pet can bring intense sadness, shock, anger, guilt or numbness. If these feelings are making daily life difficult, speak to your GP or a bereavement support service.
How long does pet grief last?
There is no fixed timescale. Feelings can return around anniversaries or familiar routines, even after you have begun to feel better.
Does feeling guilty about euthanasia mean I made the wrong choice?
Guilt is common after euthanasia and does not, by itself, tell you whether the decision was wrong. Your vet can explain your pet’s condition and the options you faced.
How do I know whether the timing was right?
Talk to your vet about what they observed and why they recommended euthanasia. They can help you understand the decision using the information available at the time.
What happens at a euthanasia appointment?
Your vet will explain the procedure and aftercare options. Ask beforehand about sedation, staying with your pet and anything else you are worried about; arrangements vary between practices.
Why do I keep expecting my pet to be there?
Familiar sounds and routines can make you expect to see your pet. This can happen during grief. Speak to your GP if it is distressing or affecting daily life.
Is it normal to cry constantly, or not to cry?
People respond differently. Some cry often; others feel numb or calm. You do not need to judge your grief by how much you cry.
What should I say to someone whose pet has died?
“I’m so sorry. I know how much you loved them” is enough. You can share a memory of their pet or ask whether they would like to talk.
What should I avoid saying?
Avoid “It was just a pet” or “You can get another”. Listen without telling them how they should feel or when they should move on.
How can I help a child who is grieving?
Explain what happened in simple language, answer their questions and let them return to the subject. Avoid “gone to sleep”, which can be confusing. A drawing or a favourite photo can help them say goodbye.
When should I seek more support?
You can contact a pet bereavement service whenever you want to talk. Speak to your GP if you are struggling with daily life. If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999 or 112.
Where can I find pet bereavement support in the UK?
Blue Cross Pet Loss Support, Cats Protection’s Paws to Listen and The Ralph Site are linked at the top of this page. Samaritans is available on 116 123 at any time.
How can I remember my pet?
You could make a memory box or photo album, frame a favourite picture, visit a place you shared, or donate to an animal rescue.
Does grief get easier?
For many people, the intensity eases over time, although difficult days can still return. If you are finding it hard to cope, contact one of the support services on this page.
About this guide
This guide provides general information and does not replace medical or veterinary advice. For urgent mental health support, see the NHS guidance on getting help.
If you find an outdated resource, please let us know.
