In a 2025 AP report, a pet loss support worker at the UK's Blue Cross said grieving owners mostly want someone to listen. The report says kind remarks like "You can get another pet" can make people go quiet and feel alone.
Associated Press (NY1)A friend's dog died. What should I say?
What people do around the world
Say "I'm here if you want to talk"
Blue Cross: let them talk, no need to comment
Associated Press (NY1)Don't say "He was a good age"
Blue Cross: they already know, and it does not help
Associated Press (NY1)「My friend's Corgi died of illness, and I just lost my own dog too.」
Oct 2026Original post・FC2
Tell them about pet loss support lines
Blue Cross: free, confidential, open every day
Cruse Bereavement SupportAsk "Want to go for a walk together?"
AP report: without a dog, there is less reason to go out
Associated Press (NY1)Say "I'm so sorry they died"
psychologist: respond with empathy
公益社団法人日本心理学会「My 16-year-old dog's childhood friend died at 17 years and 8 months, and I keep remembering our trips together.」
Oct 2026Original post・Ameba
Don't say "Just get another one"
psychologist: no pet can replace them
公益社団法人日本心理学会Don't compare or judge their grief
psychologist: every loss deserves respect
公益社団法人日本心理学会「The little dog in my building passed away. I petted its ears just the day before. I'm so sad.」
Oct 2026
Updated 29 Oct 2026.