Get Well Messages for a Pet: 50+ Things to Say

People are often embarrassed to admit how hard it is when a pet is ill, because they expect not to be taken seriously. Taking it seriously is the whole job of this card. Here are 50+ messages.

Send yours in a free get well ecard.

What to say when you hear

1. So sorry to hear about Bella. Thinking of you both.
2. Sorry to hear he is unwell. Hoping for good news from the vet.
3. Thinking of you and Bella. Hope she picks up soon.
4. So sorry — I know how much he means to you.
5. Sorry to hear the news. Fingers crossed for a good recovery.
6. Thinking of you. Hope the treatment goes well.
7. So sorry about Bella. Let me know how she gets on.
8. Sorry to hear. Sending love to you both.
9. Thinking of you today. Hope he is comfortable.
10. So sorry — hoping for better news soon.
11. Thinking of you and the dog. Hope tomorrow is a better day.
12. Sorry to hear about the diagnosis. Here if you need anything.

Taking it seriously

1. He is family. Of course you are upset — anyone sensible would be.
2. Do not let anyone tell you it is “just a dog”. It never is.
3. Thinking of you. This is a genuinely hard thing and I am not going to pretend otherwise.
4. You have looked after her beautifully. Whatever happens, she has had a good life with you.
5. I know how much he means to you. I am so sorry.
6. Worrying about a pet is exhausting. Be kind to yourself.
7. Thinking of you. Fifteen years is a long time to love something.
8. This is allowed to upset you. Anyone who says otherwise has never had one.

For a serious diagnosis

1. I am so sorry about the diagnosis. Thinking of you both.
2. So sorry to hear. Take whatever time you need with her.
3. Thinking of you. Whatever you decide, it will be the kind decision.
4. I am so sorry. You know him better than anyone — trust yourself.
5. Thinking of you through a horrible few weeks. Here for any of it.
6. So sorry. There is no easy version of this.
7. Thinking of you both. Make the most of the good days.
8. I am so sorry. Whatever comes, you have given him a wonderful life.

Practical offers

1. I will drive you to the vet. Just say when.
2. Happy to sit with her while you are at work.
3. I will walk the other one this week so you can focus.
4. Bringing dinner Thursday — you have enough on.
5. I can do the night shift if you need to sleep.
6. Happy to help with the vet bills if that would take pressure off.
7. I will come round and sit with you. No talking required.
8. Anything at all — lifts, shopping, company. Just ask.

For a child’s pet

1. Thinking of you all — I know the children adore him.
2. Sorry to hear about the rabbit. Hope she is better soon.
3. Thinking of you. Explaining this to children is the hardest part.
4. Hope the little one is on the mend. Give the children a hug from me.
5. Sorry to hear. Hoping for good news for all of you.
6. Thinking of the whole family. Hope he pulls through.

Short messages

1. Thinking of you both.
2. So sorry to hear.
3. Hope she is better soon.
4. Here if you need anything.
5. Sending love to you and Bella.
6. Fingers crossed for good news.
7. Thinking of you today.
8. Hope he picks up soon.

How to write it

1. Use the animal’s name. It signals that you are treating this as a real loss or a real worry.
2. Do not minimise it. “It is only a cat” is the phrase pet owners report as most hurtful.
3. Do not offer medical opinions. They have a vet; what they need from you is company.
4. Never suggest getting another one. Not while this one is still alive, and rarely afterwards.
5. Offer something practical. Vet trips, night shifts and walking the other dog are the real gaps.

Send it — and pair it with a gift

A free get well ecard is an easy way to check in. See also pet sympathy messages and thinking of you messages:

FAQ

What do you say when someone’s pet is ill?

Use the animal’s name, say you are sorry, and treat it as a genuine worry. Minimising it is the most common mistake.

Is it appropriate to send a card about a pet?

Yes, and it is unusual enough to be remembered. Most owners are braced for their worry to be dismissed.

What should you avoid saying?

“It is only a dog”, medical advice, and any suggestion about getting another one.

What if they have to make a decision about putting the pet down?

Do not weigh in. “Whatever you decide, it will be the kind decision” is the most supportive thing you can offer.

What is a good short message?

“So sorry to hear about Bella. Thinking of you both.”

What practical help is useful?

Lifts to the vet, sitting with the animal during work hours, and walking any other pets in the house.