The death of a family pet is often the first time a child faces the passing of a loved one—and it’s important to give the event adequate attention. Too often, parents are so engulfed in the logistics and emotions surrounding the pet’s death they forget to help children grieve. Other times, children are shielded from these upsetting experiences, yet they sense something is wrong. Older children recognize this loss and can be expected to manage their emotions themselves. Typically, the subject of death is unfamiliar to children. Their friends may have experienced the loss of a family member.