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Pet Funerals
While the concept of a pet funeral is relatively new, the value of holding a commemorative event can be an important part of the healing process. Whether you choose burial or cremation, the only right approach is the one that helps you and your family say farewell to your pet.
Pet funeral homes are helping families plan meaningful services. These funeral homes are staffed by people who understand that pet loss may be just as painful as losing a human family member. They offer burial and cremation services, and, for a fee, provide caskets, urns and grave markers designed especially for pets.
If you don’t want to use a pet funeral home, you can still plan a meaningful event.
Consider the people who were significant in your pet’s life. Invite them to participate. Think about your pet’s favourite places. Was the backyard or window seat the spot where you were most likely to find him or her? Hold the event in that spot or bring photos of their special place to the funeral home. Gather additional photos and memorabilia, like pet toys, so guests can recall favourite memories. Was there a favourite food that held your pet’s attention?
Activities can include lighting a candle and inviting friends and family to write down their memories and share them. Take a walk along a favourite route your pet enjoyed. Plant a tree or shrub to honour your pet’s life. In honour of your pet, encourage donations to an organization that benefits animals.
Record important information about your pets
Your pets are an important part of your life. Make a list of your pet’s information (e.g. type, name, sex and age) so that they are looked after and cared for in the event of your death.