What to write in a pet sympathy card

A pet sympathy card does not need clever words. It needs the pet's name, a sentence that says you are sorry, and one honest detail. Most people worry about getting it wrong. In practice a short, warm note is almost always welcome.

The simple formula

Use three parts:

• Say you are sorry, and use the pet's name.
• Share one small memory or quality.
• Offer something real, such as a visit, a walk or a cup of tea.

You can write it in two minutes and still mean every word.

Wording you can borrow

For a dog:

• "I was so sorry to hear about Biscuit. I will always remember how she waited at the gate for you."
• "Thinking of you and missing Max too. He was such a good boy."

For a cat:

• "I was so sorry to hear about Milo. He always had the best spot on the sunniest windowsill."
• "Sending you a big hug. Luna was a lucky cat to have you."

For a pet you did not meet:

• "I know how much Toby meant to you. I am here whenever you want to talk, or just sit."

Change the name and the detail, and keep the rest. If you are stuck, write the first sentence only and see whether the second comes.

What to avoid

• "At least she had a long life."
• "You can always get another one."
• "Everything happens for a reason."
• "It was just a pet."

These can feel like they are hurrying someone along. Skip them, even if you mean well.

Timing

Send the card in the first week, then follow up with a short message a month later. The second note often means more, because by then the visitors have gone and the house is quiet. Our guide to pet memorial gift ideas covers timing in more detail.

Pairing the card with a gift

A card alone is kind. A small gift beside it can be a lasting reminder. Some options:

• A dog memorial print or cat memorial print with the pet's name and years.
• A mug, such as the Tea Time mug, for the quiet mornings.
• A native plant for the garden.

We do not offer printed cards yet, so write your card by hand and tuck it in with the gift. There is an order notes box at checkout if you want to send the parcel straight to their door. Our pet memorial collection has everything in one place.

If the pet is still with you, for example a friend has a new puppy, you can find joyful options in our dog lover gift ideas and cat lover gift ideas.

If you are not sure they want to talk

Some people want to talk, others prefer a quiet gesture. A card that says "no need to reply" takes the pressure off. You might write, "Do not worry about answering, I just wanted you to know I am thinking of you."

A gentle reminder

You are not trying to fix their sadness. You are showing that you saw it. If a friend seems to be struggling for a long time, encourage them to speak to their GP or a support service.

Ordering a personalised print

Each print is made to order. Allow 3 to 7 business days for production and 2 to 5 business days for delivery within Australia. Shipping is a flat A$12.95, free over A$150. Check the spelling of the name before you pay, because it cannot be changed once production starts.

When the pet was old, or had been ill

If the pet had a long illness or was very old, you can acknowledge the care your friend gave without rushing to say it was for the best. Something like "You looked after Ruby so well, right to the end" recognises their effort and leaves their feelings alone.

A message for a colleague

Keep it short and kind. "I was so sorry to hear about Charlie. Thinking of you this week." is enough. There is no need to share a long story, and a plain card is perfectly acceptable.