Pets We Don’t Always Think Of: Mourning Small or Unusual Companions
Sunday 5th, October 2025
When most people think about losing a pet, they picture a dog or a cat. Big, furry, undeniably part of the family. But for so many of us, grief comes in smaller packages - a hamster who curls up in your hand, a parrot who mimics your laughter, a fish that brings calm to your evenings. Love doesn't measure size. And when that bond is broken, the heartbreak is just as real.
The tricky thing is, not everyone gets it. Friends might say, "It was just a rabbit", or "At least it wasn't a dog". Those words can sting more than they intend. They miss the quiet, powerful connections we build with these less "traditional" pets. So this is for anyone who's loved a little companion - and now feels the emptiness of their absence.
Small or unusual pets can weave themselves into our lives in ways that are surprisingly deep. A budgie might whistle your favourite tune when you walk into the room. A guinea pig might nuzzle your hand for treats. A turtle quietly becomes a comforting presence in your day.
These creatures may not sit on your lap like a dog or greet you at the door, but the routines, the quirks, the little rituals you share, they matter. You notice the way your hamster stores its treats or how your lizard settles into the same spot every evening. In those moments, love grows quietly, steadily, and profoundly.
Psychologists have found that the emotional bonds we form with animals, no matter the species, can be just as strong as those we share with people. Losing that companion leaves a real hole in our hearts.
Here's something that can make the grief even harder: other people sometimes don't get it. This is what psychologists call "disenfranchised grief" - when your sorrow isn't fully acknowledged.
You might hear things like:
But the pain is real. The bond was real. And it's okay to feel it fully.
Some gentle ways to cope:
Even the tiniest companion leaves a mark. Finding a way to honour them can bring comfort. Here are some ideas:
Every pet has a story. Every person who loved one has a story. Sharing these stories helps us all feel less alone. Maybe post a photo online, write a short reflection, or contribute to a community memorial. Your story might help someone else who's quietly missing their own little friend.
Grief doesn't follow a timetable. Some days, the ache hits sharply; other days, it's a gentle sadness that lingers. That’s okay. Be kind to yourself.
In time, the pain softens into something quieter - a sense of gratitude for the love you shared. You gave your pet a safe, loving life, and they gave you comfort, joy, and companionship in return.
You can also honour them in small acts of kindness: donate to an animal charity, help a rescue, or simply pause to appreciate the little joys they brought into your life. Love, no matter how small, always leaves a mark.
Grieving a small or unusual pet might feel invisible sometimes, but it's real. The bond you shared - whether they chirped, crawled, hopped, or swam - was meaningful. Your sorrow is valid. Your memories are precious. And your little companion will always have a place in your heart.
Because love doesn't come in a size, and grief doesn't need permission.
The tricky thing is, not everyone gets it. Friends might say, "It was just a rabbit", or "At least it wasn't a dog". Those words can sting more than they intend. They miss the quiet, powerful connections we build with these less "traditional" pets. So this is for anyone who's loved a little companion - and now feels the emptiness of their absence.
The Bonds Are Real, Even if They’re Small
Small or unusual pets can weave themselves into our lives in ways that are surprisingly deep. A budgie might whistle your favourite tune when you walk into the room. A guinea pig might nuzzle your hand for treats. A turtle quietly becomes a comforting presence in your day.
These creatures may not sit on your lap like a dog or greet you at the door, but the routines, the quirks, the little rituals you share, they matter. You notice the way your hamster stores its treats or how your lizard settles into the same spot every evening. In those moments, love grows quietly, steadily, and profoundly.
Psychologists have found that the emotional bonds we form with animals, no matter the species, can be just as strong as those we share with people. Losing that companion leaves a real hole in our hearts.
When Others Don't Understand
Here's something that can make the grief even harder: other people sometimes don't get it. This is what psychologists call "disenfranchised grief" - when your sorrow isn't fully acknowledged.
You might hear things like:
- "It wasn't even a proper pet."
- "Just get another one."
- "It's only a fish."
But the pain is real. The bond was real. And it's okay to feel it fully.
Some gentle ways to cope:
- Find online groups, or friends who understand can be a lifeline.
- Write it out. Letters to your pet or journaling memories can help release emotions.
- Create a small ritual. Light a candle, plant a flower, or just sit quietly with a photo.
- Talk about it. Sharing your story normalises the grief and helps others understand.
Remembering Them in Your Own Way
Even the tiniest companion leaves a mark. Finding a way to honour them can bring comfort. Here are some ideas:
- Memory box or shadow frame: Include photos, toys, feathers, or tiny keepsakes.
- A living tribute: Plant a flower or tree in their memory. Something you can nurture and watch grow.
- Digital memorials: Create an online page, a small video montage, or a scrapbook. Share it if you want.
- Art or writing: Paint, draw, write poetry, or just jot down stories about them. The act of remembering is healing in itself.
- Keep a memento close: A perch, a favourite rock, or even a piece of their bedding can bring comfort.
- Mark anniversaries: Take a quiet moment on the day they passed or their adoption day to reflect and remember.
Sharing Stories Matters
Every pet has a story. Every person who loved one has a story. Sharing these stories helps us all feel less alone. Maybe post a photo online, write a short reflection, or contribute to a community memorial. Your story might help someone else who's quietly missing their own little friend.
Moving Forward Without Forgetting
Grief doesn't follow a timetable. Some days, the ache hits sharply; other days, it's a gentle sadness that lingers. That’s okay. Be kind to yourself.
In time, the pain softens into something quieter - a sense of gratitude for the love you shared. You gave your pet a safe, loving life, and they gave you comfort, joy, and companionship in return.
You can also honour them in small acts of kindness: donate to an animal charity, help a rescue, or simply pause to appreciate the little joys they brought into your life. Love, no matter how small, always leaves a mark.
Final Thoughts
Grieving a small or unusual pet might feel invisible sometimes, but it's real. The bond you shared - whether they chirped, crawled, hopped, or swam - was meaningful. Your sorrow is valid. Your memories are precious. And your little companion will always have a place in your heart.
Because love doesn't come in a size, and grief doesn't need permission.