Losing a beloved pet is heartbreaking, no matter the circumstances. But when a pet passes away at home — whether suddenly or after a long illness — the situation can feel even more overwhelming.
Many pet owners aren’t sure what to do in those first difficult hours. This guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through the steps to take after your pet dies at home, both emotionally and practically.
Step 1: Take a Moment to Say Goodbye
First and foremost, allow yourself a moment to pause. Whether you were expecting this or not, the loss can be emotionally intense. Sit with your pet, talk to them, hold them if you feel comfortable, and take a moment to grieve. There’s no right or wrong way to say goodbye.
If other family members or pets are present, include them in the moment. Pets often understand loss in their own way, and letting them see or smell the body may help with their own grieving process.
Step 2: Contact a Pet Cremation Service or Your Veterinarian
Look for pet cremation services near you and choose the one that best fits your needs. This gives you more control over the process and may help you save on costs. Veterinarians often work with a single cremation provider and may include additional service fees, which can limit your options.
If your regular veterinarian is open, you can still call them to let them know what happened. They may offer aftercare services such as:
- Transportation of your pet’s body
- Temporary storage
- Assistance coordinating cremation or burial
You can also reach out directly to a local pet cremation provider. Many offer 24/7 support and can guide you through the next steps with compassion and care.
Step 3: Decide on Aftercare
You’ll need to decide how you’d like to handle your pet’s body. The main options are:
- Cremation – The most common option. You can choose private, communal, or partitioned cremation.
- Burial – At home (if legal in your area) or in a pet cemetery.
- Pet memorial services – Some providers offer customized tributes, urns, or keepsakes.
If you’re unsure, our Pet Cremation Directory can help you find compassionate providers near you.
Step 4: Prepare the Body (If Immediate Pickup Isn’t Available)
If you need to wait for transportation or burial:
- Place your pet on a towel or blanket in a cool, quiet area.
- Wrap them gently and position their body in a natural, peaceful pose.
- Keep them cool by placing them in a room with air conditioning or using ice packs beneath the body, especially if several hours may pass.
Try to contact a cremation provider or vet within 6–12 hours, if possible.
Step 5: Notify Others
If your pet had a microchip, notify the registry so they can update records. If your pet was under special care (like a sitter, daycare, or walking service), inform them as well.
You may also want to share the news with close friends and family who knew your pet — sometimes a simple message can bring needed comfort and support.
Step 6: Take Time to Grieve
Everyone processes loss differently. Be kind to yourself. You may feel shock, sadness, guilt, or even relief if your pet had been suffering — all of these emotions are valid.
Consider creating a small memorial, writing a letter to your pet, or keeping something of theirs close to you. Some people find comfort in making a scrapbook or planting something in their honor.
If you need extra support, many areas have pet grief counselors or support groups who can help you through the healing process.
Final Thoughts
When your pet dies at home, it can feel like the world stands still. But you’re not alone. With a few thoughtful steps, you can honor your companion’s memory and find peace in the process.
If you need help finding a respectful aftercare provider, visit our Pet Cremation Directory — we’re here to connect you with compassionate services during one of life’s most difficult moments.