When you discover Herbie the Hamster flat on his back, you know there's going to be some explaining to do.

Dealing with the loss of a pet is tough for anyone -- especially a child -- because it's often his or her first experience with grief. How do you explain what happened to Herbie?

On the "Today" show, psychotherapist Robi Ludwig gives tips for explaining the death of a pet. Her best piece of advice -- don't lie and don't use euphemisms.

Watch all her tips in this interview...

Have you had to explain the loss of a pet to your child? How did you do it?