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Unless you have ever had a cherished pet, it may be hard to understand what a friend or loved one goes through during a loss of a pet. This is a heart-breaking experience and for many, it is no different from the grief experienced at the loss of a family member. The most important thing you can do for those suffering the loss of a pet is to be supportive. Here are some helpful suggestions:

SEND A CARD OR SYMPATHY BASKET
Sending a card or sympathy basket and writing a personal message inside can be very comforting. Letting those grieving know you care shows support.

SHARE MEMORIES
Ask about happy memories shared with their pet. Reliving good times may help ease their pain.

ENCOURAGE THE EXPRESSION OF FEELINGS
Keeping emotions bottled up inside will make the healing process even longer. Encourage the expression of their feelings and listen to what they have to say.

SUPPORT GROUPS
Sometimes just listening may not be enough. If your loved one or friend is having a hard time recovering from the loss of a pet, encourage them to join a support group and share their feelings with those can relate to what they are going through.

HELP OUT
Lend a hand in any way that you are able to in order to take stress off their shoulders during the grieving process.

This content was created in partnership with 1-800-Flowers.com