The loss of a pet is an experience that can touch us profoundly. Unfortunately, it's not always regarded with the seriousness that losing a family member or friend evokes in others.

City Hall's sympathy touches pet owners Condolence cards for departed animals come from the heart — and postage is not from Albany taxpayers' wallets By Jordan Carleo-Evangelist March 9, 2012 ...

This vet’s condolence card for dog owner will leave you HEARTBROKEN PETS leave a paw print on your heart, so when your faithful friend goes to moggy or doggy heaven the pain can be unbearable.

It is peculiar to think that a mass stamped expression -- “Sympathy,” or in the case of letters of thanks, “Thank you” -- is better than the personal, handwritten word.