The holiday season often feels like a mandate to be thankful, but sometimes, after a genuinely tough year, that feeling can be hard to reach. For those of us who have walked through loss, the silence in the house can speak louder than any family gathering.

For me, the past year has been a lesson in profound sadness, having had to say goodbye to both Odin and Hilda. Their specific absences leave holes in my heart and my routine that will never fully close. But true gratitude, I’ve realized, is not about forgetting the pain; it’s about recognizing the light that remains: the steadfast presence of Lizzie, who is truly my everything and anchors me, the celebration of Billy’s one-year anniversary, and the quiet, steady companionship of Zelda and Bosco. It’s clear I still have an immense amount to be thankful for.

This Thanksgiving, let’s look beyond the feast and the immediate family gathering to reflect on what all pet parents share: the profound, non-negotiable gift of animal companionship.

What We Are Truly Thankful For (The Universal Pet Parent List)

Our pets bring structures and blessings into our lives that often go unnoticed until we pause to reflect.

  • The Unconditional Welcome: You could have had the worst day imaginable—missed deadlines, frustrating traffic, or just a general cloud hanging over you. But the moment you walk through the door, you are greeted by pure, non-judgmental joy. The frantic tail wag, the instant purr-powered head bump, the sheer ecstasy of their greeting—it’s a reminder that you are loved, no questions asked.
  • The Forced Routine: In a world where our schedules are often dictated by screens and endless to-do lists, our pets are the ultimate anchors. We are thankful for the structure they demand: the early morning walk, the scheduled feeding time, the mandatory evening cuddle session. This forced routine pulls us away from distraction, sends us outside, and grounds us firmly in the present moment.
  • The Comedic Relief: No matter how stressful the human situation, our pets are masters of unintentional, accidental humor. We are thankful for the sudden, explosive zoomies, the utterly ridiculous sleeping positions, the dramatic reaction to a cucumber, and the chaos they introduce that makes us laugh when we desperately need it.
  • The Quiet Presence: We are thankful for the steady, profound comfort of their proximity. Whether it’s the heavy, warm weight of a cat on the chest or a dog curled by the feet—a silent, powerful anchor.
  • The Empathy Factor: Our pets teach us patience, responsibility, and selfless care. They allow us to access a deep, instinctive well of empathy, making us better, kinder humans.

The Gratitude of Grief: Honoring the Absent

True gratitude can, and must, coexist with sadness. For those of us who have suffered the loss of a companion this year, thankfulness is not about forgetting Odin or Hilda, but about honoring the time we had.

We are thankful for the years and the lessons the lost pets taught us. Emphasize the importance of cherishing the memory and honoring their legacy by caring for the pets still with us.

Celebrating the Present: The Joy of the "Now"

Lizzie, my Bulldog, has been the rock and the anchor through this challenging year. Her steady presence, her deep sighs of contentment, and her constant proximity have been a powerful, quiet force keeping me grounded. We celebrate her unwavering love and the strength she embodies.

We also celebrate the joy of new beginnings (Billy’s anniversary) and the energy they inject into life. And we celebrate the quiet strength of Zelda and Bosco who help anchor the home through grief.

A Family of Fur and Feathers

This Thanksgiving, I encourage every pet parent to pause. Take a moment away from the kitchen and the guests, squeeze your furry friends tight, and truly appreciate the simple, profound love they provide. They make our homes warmer, our lives richer, and our hearts fuller.

We at Pets Etc. share your dedication to this unique family bond, and we are committed to supporting you through all of life's ups and downs. Happy Thanksgiving.