In 2025, funerals are no longer one-size-fits-all — and that includes who gets to attend. As more Australians personalise their final farewells, bringing pets to funerals is becoming an increasingly popular choice.

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But is it appropriate? Legal? Comforting? Or potentially chaotic?

Pets Funerals

At eziFunerals, we’re seeing a rise in families asking whether they can include their beloved pets in memorial services — especially when the deceased was a devoted animal lover. This trend is part of a broader shift toward more meaningful, inclusive and personalised funerals.

Here are 10 important things to know before you bring a pet to a funeral or memorial service.

1. Pets Can Provide Comfort During Grief

One of the biggest benefits of having pets at funerals is emotional comfort. Grief is heavy, and animals offer unconditional love, emotional support, and calm energy — especially dogs. Many people report that simply having a pet nearby helps reduce anxiety during services.

Therapy animals are even used in some hospices and hospitals for this reason. Including a pet in a funeral can bring a soothing presence that helps mourners cope.

2. Some Funeral Homes Allow Pets — Others Don’t

Pets to Funerals

Funeral homes across Australia have different policies when it comes to pets. Some may allow small, well-behaved animals (usually dogs) into their chapels or gardens, while others have a strict no-pets policy due to hygiene, insurance, or safety concerns.

Always call ahead and speak with the funeral director or venue manager. At eziFunerals, you can compare providers and check for pet-friendly options directly through our platform.

3. Outdoor and Home-Based Funerals Are Pet-Friendly Alternatives

If the funeral home doesn’t allow pets, consider planning a memorial service at home, in a backyard, or at a park — where pets are typically welcome. These more relaxed environments are not only more inclusive but can be a more affordable and personal option.

With the rise in DIY and direct cremation services, families have more flexibility than ever to design a ceremony that fits their needs — including pet participation.

4. Not All Pets Are Funeral-Ready

As much as we love our animals, not every pet is suited for a funeral setting. Ask yourself:

  • Is your pet calm in crowds?
  • Can it handle new environments and sounds?
  • Will it be a comfort — or a distraction?

A barking dog or an overly energetic pup can disrupt an otherwise serene moment. Always prioritise the emotional space of other mourners and assess whether your pet can truly be a calming presence.

5. Pets Can Be Part of the Tribute

When someone was especially close to their animal, including that pet can be a powerful tribute. Some ideas:

  • Have the pet walk in the procession or sit near the casket or urn
  • Place a photo of the pet on the memorial table
  • Include the pet in a farewell slideshow or video
  • Let the pet wear a floral collar or custom tag

This is especially meaningful in the case of service dogs, working animals, or pets that were deeply bonded with the deceased.

6. Consider Allergies and Cultural Sensitivities

Not every attendee will be comfortable with pets at a funeral. Some may have severe allergies, while others may come from religious or cultural backgrounds where animals in sacred spaces are not appropriate.

It’s always wise to communicate clearly with invited guests, or include a polite note in the funeral notice:

“As [Name] loved animals dearly, well-behaved pets are welcome to attend this memorial service.”

7. Funeral Etiquette Still Applies

If you bring your pet to a funeral, treat it like you would a child at a formal event:

  • Keep them leashed or in a carrier
  • Bring treats, water, and waste bags
  • Keep them calm and quiet
  • Have an exit strategy if they get overwhelmed

If you’re unsure how your pet will react, consider bringing a friend who can take the pet for a walk if needed. Your priority should be to honour the person being remembered, not take attention away.

8. Some Churches and Cemeteries Have Restrictions

While some denominations are flexible, others may have strict rules about animals in places of worship or burial. Always check with:

  • The celebrant, minister, or officiant
  • Cemetery or crematorium management
  • Local council regulations for public spaces

Some cemeteries have dedicated pet-friendly sections, while others may restrict animal access altogether.

9. Pet-Inclusive Memorial Services Are on the Rise

Pets Funeral

More Australians are choosing to celebrate life in non-traditional ways — and that includes inviting everyone who mattered, fur babies included.

At eziFunerals, we’re seeing a rise in:

  • Memorial picnics where pets are welcome
  • Scattering ceremonies at dog parks or pet-friendly beaches
  • Urn keepsakes and memorial products that include paw prints or pet-themed artwork

In fact, some people are now planning dual memorials for their pet and loved one, especially in cases where they passed close together.

10. eziFunerals Can Help You Plan a Pet-Friendly Farewell

Whether you’re planning ahead or navigating a recent loss, eziFunerals gives you the tools to:

Bringing a pet to a funeral isn’t just a sweet gesture — it’s a reflection of the bond between humans and animals. And in today’s evolving funeral landscape, personal touches like these matter more than ever.

Final Thoughts

Grief looks different for everyone — and for many families, pets are family. Including them in a farewell can bring comfort, honour the relationship, and create a truly memorable experience.

As long as it’s thoughtful, well-managed, and appropriate to the setting, bringing pets to funerals can be a beautiful part of modern memorial traditions.

Want to plan a personalised, pet-friendly funeral?

Start with eziFunerals — Australia’s #1 funeral comparison site.

Visit eziFunerals to compare providers, save money, and plan with confidence.

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Peter

Peter Erceg is the Founder and Owner of eziFunerals — Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority. With more than 40 years of experience in government and public health, Peter has become one of the country’s leading voices on funeral transparency, consumer rights, and ethical funeral practices. Through eziFunerals, Peter has built a national platform that empowers Australian families to make informed end-of-life decisions — free from pressure, commissions, and confusion. His goal is simple: "to help every Australian plan smarter, save money, and choose funeral services with confidence." 🕊 eziFunerals was founded by Peter in 2011, as an independent funeral comparison and planning platform that allows consumers to: • Compare local funeral directors and transparent quotes, • Understand real funeral costs across Australia, and • Connect with trusted, independent funeral homes that uphold the Fair Funeral Promise. As Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority, eziFunerals is recognised by media, consumers, and funeral professionals for its leadership in price transparency and consumer protection. “We believe every family deserves a fair, dignified, and affordable farewell — without hidden fees or sales pressure.” 📘 Peter is the author of What Kind of Funeral: A Self-Help Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral, a practical guide that has helped thousands of Australians understand their options and avoid unnecessary costs. He regularly contributes articles and commentary on: • Funeral cost transparency and industry reform, • Prepaid funerals and consumer protection, • Emerging trends in eco-friendly and digital memorials, and • The role of AI and technology in end-of-life planning. 🎙 Peter and eziFunerals have been featured in major Australian media outlets including ABC News. His insights continue to shape the national conversation on funeral costs, consumer rights, and ethical practices in the funeral industry. ⚖️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Peter Erceg are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of eziFunerals or its members. The information provided on this site is general in nature and should not be taken as personal, legal, or financial advice. Consumers are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare funeral services that best meet their needs and circumstances.