The strongest message acknowledges the pet as family, uses their name and avoids trying to explain away the grief. These original examples are designed as starting points, not scripts you must copy word for word.
For a card signed by the whole team.
Short and sincere
We are so sorry you had to say goodbye to [pet name]. It was a privilege to care for such a loved member of your family.
Thinking of you and remembering [pet name] with great fondness. Their gentle presence will be missed by all of us.
[Pet name] was clearly adored. We hope the memories you made together bring comfort in the days ahead.
Our whole team is thinking of you. Thank you for trusting us with [pet name]'s care.
We will remember [pet name] and the happiness they brought into the room. Our hearts are with your family.
There is never enough time with a beloved pet. We are holding you close in our thoughts.
Add one detail the team genuinely remembers.
Warm and personal
We will always remember the way [pet name] [recognizable habit]. That little spark made every visit brighter, and we know it made home brighter too.
The bond between you and [pet name] was easy to see. You gave them a life filled with safety, care and love.
[Pet name] had such a special way of [personal detail]. We feel lucky to have known them and to have witnessed how deeply they were loved.
From the stories you shared, it was clear [pet name] was at the center of so many happy moments. Those stories still belong to you.
You made every decision for [pet name] with love. We hope you can feel the same kindness toward yourself now.
[Pet name] was one of a kind. We will remember [their] personality, [their] courage and the wonderful family who loved [them].
A personal note from the clinician who knew them.
From the veterinarian
Caring for [pet name] was an honor. I will remember their [quality] and the remarkable care you gave them throughout their life.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of [pet name]'s care. The love between you was present in every decision you made.
I know how much [pet name] meant to your family. I am deeply sorry for your loss and grateful that I had the chance to know them.
You gave [pet name] comfort, dignity and a beautiful life. I hope that truth brings some peace when the loss feels especially heavy.
I will remember [pet name] for [specific detail]. Please know that they mattered to our team too.
The hardest choices are often made from the deepest love. You were there for [pet name] when they needed you most.
Keep it human
Four things to avoid.
× Do not say they can simply get another pet.
× Avoid comparing the loss to your own experience unless the client invites it.
× Do not use cheerful language that asks the family to move on quickly.
Every example above is original Dear Arthur copy. The principles also reflect professional guidance from the Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy, alongside what makes a personal message feel specific rather than templated.