Explaining Pet Loss to Children: Some Do's and Don'ts

[Reviewed and updated March 20, 2026]

Childhood is the kingdom where nobody dies. ~ Edna St. Vincent Millay

Whether it’s a dog or a cat, a Guinea pig, a hamster or a goldfish, the death of a pet is often a young family’s first experience with significant loss. As a grief counselor who also specializes in pet loss, I am often asked by teachers, parents, grandparents and others how best to explain to children the death of a family pet. Here are the points I encourage them to consider.