What to Do When a Pet Dies

In the first hours after losing a pet, the practical decisions can feel like too much. This gentle checklist walks you through them, one calm step at a time.

There is no need to do everything at once. Take the decisions one at a time, and lean on your veterinarian and the people who love you. You do not have to face this alone.

The first steps, gently

Give yourself a moment

There is no need to rush. Take the time you need to sit with your pet, say goodbye, and let the first wave of shock pass before making any decisions.

Contact your veterinarian

If your pet died at home, your vet can advise on next steps, help with aftercare, and often coordinate cremation. If it happened at the clinic, they will guide you gently through the options.

Decide on aftercare

The main choices are cremation, burial in a pet cemetery, or home burial where local rules allow. You usually have a little time to decide, so you do not have to choose instantly.

Care for the body in the meantime

If you need a short while before aftercare, keep your pet in a cool place. Your vet or a pet aftercare service can also hold your pet respectfully while you decide.

Tell the people who need to know

Let close family know, and consider notifying anyone connected to your pet, such as a pet insurer, microchip registry, or licensing office, when you feel ready.

Choosing aftercare

Deciding how to lay your pet to rest is one of the last loving things you will do for them. If you are weighing the options, our guides to pet cremation, pet cemeteries, and what to do with the ashes explain each choice in plain language.

Caring for yourself

The practical tasks are only part of this. Your grief matters too. Be gentle with yourself in the days ahead, and reach out when you need to. A pet loss hotline, a support group, or our guide on how to cope with pet loss can all help you carry it.

This guide offers general information. Your veterinarian can advise on the specifics for your pet and your area.

What to Do When a Pet Dies: Common Questions

Gentle, practical answers for the hardest days.

What should I do immediately when my pet dies at home?

First, allow yourself a moment to grieve, there is no need to rush. When you are ready, contact your veterinarian for guidance on aftercare, and keep your pet in a cool place if there will be a delay before cremation or burial. Your vet or a pet aftercare service can also collect your pet for you. Take the decisions one at a time.

What are my aftercare options after a pet dies?

The main options are cremation (communal, individual, or private), burial in a pet cemetery, or home burial where local rules permit. Cremation is the most common choice. You usually have a little time to decide, so talk it over with family and choose what feels right rather than what feels rushed.

Who do I need to notify when a pet dies?

When you feel ready, consider notifying your pet insurer to stop payments, the microchip registry to update or close the record, and any pet licensing or registration office. If your pet was on regular medication or had upcoming appointments, let the vet or pharmacy know as well. None of this is urgent, so handle it at your own pace.

How do I take care of myself after my pet dies?

Be gentle with yourself. In the first days, focus on basics like drinking water, eating something, and resting. Let yourself grieve and lean on people who understand. If the pain feels overwhelming, a pet loss hotline, support group, or counselor can help. Your grief is valid, and asking for support is a healthy step.