What Not to Say When Your Pet Is Dying: Vet Shares Heartfelt Advice

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest parts of being a pet owner.

Many choose to stay by their pet’s side, offering love and comfort until the very end.

But according to mobile hospice vet Faith Banks, while supportive words are crucial during these final moments, there’s one phrase she wishes people wouldn’t say: “I’m sorry.”

Not the best way

Faith, who often witnesses pets’ final moments, shared in a recent TikTok video that pets can feel the emotion behind their owner’s last words.

She explained, “The last words you say to your pet are very special and very meaningful.”

But expressing guilt may not be the best way to send off your furry friend.

Why ‘I’m Sorry’ Might Not Be the Right Message

When a pet is at the end of its life, many owners instinctively say “I’m sorry.” But for Faith, this can be a bittersweet sentiment.

She understands that people often feel sadness that their time with their pet is ending, but worries that it could also convey a sense of regret or failure.

“I hope they’re not apologizing for anything they have done wrong,” Faith said.

She emphasized that most pet owners have done so much for their animals, providing them with love, care, and a wonderful life.

Instead of “I’m sorry,” she encourages owners to focus on gratitude and love, saying things like “I love you,” “Thank you,” or “You’ll always be with me.”

Heartfelt Words from Pet Owners: What to Say Instead

The comments on Faith’s video were filled with stories from pet owners sharing their own emotional goodbyes.

One person wrote, “I said, ‘It’s okay, you can go now. Mama will be fine.’ I lied. I wasn’t fine then, and I am still not fine now. But he closed his eyes and took his final breath after my lie. I guess it was okay then.”

Another shared their experience with a 22-year-old cat: “I told him I loved him so much and thanked him for his unconditional love. I just hope he felt how much I felt but could not describe.”

These stories shows how powerful our final words can be — not just for our pets, but for our own healing process. Offering comfort, expressing love, and showing gratitude can help provide a sense of closure and peace.

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