Over 85% of pet owners consider their animals to be family members, making a pet’s passing an intensely personal and often overwhelming experience. When you’re faced with the death of your beloved companion, knowing exactly what steps to take can provide structure during an emotional time. The immediate hours following your pet’s death require several practical and emotional decisions that shouldn’t be navigated alone. Understanding these five essential steps will help you honor your pet’s memory of what to do when a pet passes while managing the necessary arrangements with dignity and care.
Confirm Your Pet’s Passing and Take Time to Say Goodbye
When your pet shows no signs of breathing or movement, you’ll need to confirm their passing before proceeding with any arrangements. Check for breathing by watching their chest and feeling for airflow from their nose. Gently touch their eyes to check for reflex response.
Once confirmed, take time to say goodbye. This initial farewell is essential to your grieving process. Sit with your pet, stroke their fur, and speak to them if you wish. There’s no need to rush this moment.
Consider having a family member or friend provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Everyone processes pet loss differently, so honor your feelings.
Decide on Aftercare Options for Your Pet’s Remains
After confirming your pet has passed, you’ll need to make timely decisions about their remains.
You typically have three main options: home burial, pet cemetery burial, or cremation services.
Home burial may be suitable if you own property and local regulations permit it.
Pet cemeteries offer dedicated spaces where you can visit your companion.
Cremation services provide several choices—communal cremation (most affordable), private cremation (where you receive only your pet’s ashes), or partitioned cremation.
Many veterinary offices can coordinate these arrangements for you.
Consider your emotional needs, living situation, and budget when making this difficult decision.
Contact Your Veterinarian for Guidance and Documentation
Regardless of your chosen aftercare option, contacting your veterinarian should be a priority following your pet’s passing. Your vet can provide essential guidance during this difficult phase of pet loss and help facilitate the next steps.
If your pet died at home, your veterinarian can verify the death and issue necessary documentation. They’ll offer advice on handling remains based on your preferences.
Many clinics also provide veterinary support resources like grief counseling referrals or memorial options.
For pets with ongoing medical conditions, informing your vet allows them to complete medical records and discontinue any medication reminders or future appointments.
Notify Family Members and Other Pets in the Household
The emotional process of saying goodbye to your pet involves more than just medical considerations.
You’ll need to inform all family members, using age-appropriate language for children. Share the news in a quiet, private setting where questions and emotions can be expressed freely.
Don’t forget your other pets. Animals often sense changes and may exhibit altered pet behaviors such as searching for their companion, decreased appetite, or lethargy.
Allow them to see and sniff their deceased friend if possible, which can help their understanding of the loss.
Create a Simple Memorial to Honor Your Pet’s Life
Remembrance provides comfort during the grieving process after losing a cherished pet. Creating a memorial helps channel your emotions while celebrating the joy your companion brought to your life.
Consider these pet tribute ideas:
- Plant a tree or flowering bush in your yard
- Frame a favorite photo with collar tags
- Create a memory box with toys and keepsakes
- Commission a custom portrait
- Make a donation to an animal charity in their name
Memorial keepsakes don’t need to be elaborate—their purpose is to acknowledge your loss and preserve meaningful memories of your beloved pet’s presence in your life.