What to Say to Someone Grieving a Pet

A short guide and fill-in note, for the friend who does not know what to say.

Most people who go quiet on a grieving friend are not indifferent, they are afraid of getting it wrong.

This short guide removes that fear: a few lines on what tends to actually help, a few on what tends to land badly, and a simple template so you are not starting from a blank page.

Read the two short lists first, then use the template as a starting point rather than sending it exactly as written.

One honest, specific line will matter more than getting the wording perfect.