Songs to Help You Grieve Through Pet Loss: A Memorial Playlist
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest trials. It’s a kind of grief that feels so personal — because our pets are more than animals. They’re family. They’re our silent companions through heartbreaks, lazy Sundays, big life changes, and everyday joy. They give us their whole hearts without ever asking for much in return.
When we lost our dog, we found ourselves reaching for music. Not just to fill the silence in the house, but to help make sense of the ache in my chest, to cry when I needed to, and sometimes, to smile at the beautiful memories we shared. Music has a way of speaking when words fail.
This list is for anyone who has loved and lost a pet. Whether you're putting together a slideshow, planning a memorial, or just sitting quietly with your grief, I hope these songs bring you comfort, a safe space to feel what you need to feel, and maybe even a moment of peace.
A Pet Grief Playlist
Songs for Mourning & Remembering
"I’ll See You Again" – Westlife
This song resonates with anyone going through loss, be it a friend, family member, or a pet. The lyrics hit home:
Someday I'll see you againI feel you walk beside meNever leave you, yeahGone but not forgottenI feel you by my sideNo this is not goodbye
"Old Shep" – Elvis Presley
A classic ballad about the loss of a pet inspired by Elvis's own experience with saying farewell too soon. It tells the story of a boy and dog best friend duo, appreciating the precious memories they shared.
Old Shep, he has gone where the good doggies goAnd no more with old Shep, will I roamBut if dogs have a heaven, there's one thing I knowOld Shep has a wonderful home
"Goodbye My Friend" – Linda Ronstadt
Specifically written about a dog’s passing, this song is a goodbye letter to her furry friend.
Oh we never know where life will take usI know it's just a ride on the wheel.And we never know when death will shake usAnd we wonder how it will feel.
"The Day You Went Away" – Wendy Matthews
This song captures the deep, lingering ache of absence — the way life shifts after someone we love is no longer there. The lyrics reflect on the confusion and sorrow that follow loss, making it a powerful choice for a pet memorial service.
Hey, there's not a cloud in sightIt's as blue as your blue goodbyeAnd I thought that it would rainThe day you went away
"Maggie’s Song" – Chris Stapleton
This one goes through the highs of a life spent together, and the lows of realizing your old dog is ready to leave this Earth. It's a tribute to his pet's life, touching on companionship and the bond that remains after they leave.
And she loved to chase squirrelsAnd playing out in the snowShe'd take off like a bulletMan, you should have seen her go
"It’s Just a Dog" – Mo Pitney
This song tells the story from the day he picked his pup off the side of the road to the day he realized there was something (or someone) missing in his passenger seat. He reminisces on breakups, fishing trips, and chewed shoes - a timeless melody capturing the essence of man's best friend.
Why am I pulling over on the shoulder with tears in my eyes?It's just a dog, right?She was just a dog, right?
"Little Boys Grow Up and Dogs Get Old" – Luke Bryan
This heartfelt song captures the bond between a boy and his dog as they grow up together. With gentle lyrics and a soft melody, it reflects on the love, loyalty, and inevitable goodbye that comes with time. It’s a beautiful tribute for anyone mourning a pet who was there through all of life’s moments.
He was my sidekick through thick and thinAnd he'd bark at my fish when I'd reel 'em inSummers came and went and we grew like weedsAnd I don't know if I raised him or he raised me
Upbeat Farewells
"I Love My Dog" – Cat Stevens
This song has a happy melody, and is a simple, catchy sing-along type to remember your dog without being overwhelmed by sadness.
"The Puppy Song" – Harry Nilsson
About a man who dreams of having a dog that he can take everywhere with him. A reminder of all the good parts about having a pet, without the grieving themes.
"Cracker Jack" – Dolly Parton
This sweet, nostalgic tune tells the true story of Dolly’s childhood dog, Cracker Jack — her loyal friend and constant companion. With her signature storytelling and a warm, folksy vibe, Dolly sings about their adventures, his unconditional love, and the heartbreak of losing him.
"Good Dog" - Oliver Houston
This emo-leaning punk rock track hits hard. Beneath the driving guitars and gritty vocals is a tribute to a dog’s unwavering presence — one constant in the chaos.
"Spirit in the Sky" - Norman Greenbaum
This upbeat, lighthearted rock classic offers a comforting take on what happens after we die. With fuzzy guitars and a catchy gospel-infused chorus, it’s less about sorrow and more about peace — heading “up to the spirit in the sky.”
"Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" - Monty Python
Cheeky, irreverent, and oddly uplifting, this Monty Python classic brings humor into even the darkest moments. With its whistled melody and tongue-in-cheek lyrics about death and misfortune, it gently reminds us not to take life — or loss — too seriously.
Rainbow Bridge Themes for Memorials
“Chasing Butterflies” – Frankly Speaking
Written specifically about a dog crossing the rainbow bridge, this gentle acoustic ballad captures the ache of saying goodbye to a beloved pet. The lyrics are filled with imagery of peace and playfulness — “chasing butterflies” becomes a metaphor for freedom and rest.
“Stay” – Lisa Loeb
Though not originally written about pets, many interpret this ‘90s classic as a bittersweet anthem for the deep, unspoken bond between human and animal. Its vulnerable lyrics and stripped-back acoustic sound reflect that push-pull feeling of wanting to hold on and knowing we can’t.
“Your Side of the Bed” – LoCash
This tender country ballad explores the quiet emptiness that follows a loss — especially one that used to curl up right beside you every night. Though subtle, the lyrics and tone speak to the absence of a beloved dog with softness and respect.
"When I Get Where I'm Going" – Brad Paisley ft. Dolly Parton
This gentle country duet offers a hopeful vision of the afterlife — a place of peace, joy, and reunion. With tender vocals and a comforting tone, it’s a beautiful way to imagine your dog now free and happy, waiting somewhere beyond the pain of goodbye.
A Note on Pet Loss
Grieving a pet is a deeply personal journey, and music can help us find comfort in the moments when words fall short. Whether you're creating a tribute, planning a pet memorial service, or simply reflecting on the love you shared, we hope this playlist offers some peace and connection.
If you're looking for a way to honor your pet's memory, we also offer personalized engraved pet memorial gifts — a meaningful way to keep their spirit close, always.