Common ways include a grave marker or headstone, a garden stone, keeping ashes in a pet urn, wearing keepsake jewelry, planting a tree, or creating a free digital pet memorial page with their photos, videos and the little everyday moments. Many families combine a physical marker with a QR plaque that opens the memorial.

Completely. Pet grief is real and often intense because pets offer unconditional, everyday companionship. It can even feel "disenfranchised" when others don't recognize it. Give yourself permission to grieve, seek pet-loss support if you need it, and find a way to honor them that feels right.

Acknowledge the loss without minimizing it: "I'm so sorry — [pet's name] was so loved, and this is a real loss." Never say "it was just a pet." Share a specific memory if you have one, and offer ongoing support.