When a pet passes away, it can be an incredibly difficult and upsetting time for owners. Emotions run high and it’s not always easy knowing what you should do next. If your pet is old or has been unwell for some time, you may already have plans in place. But it’s always good to know what your options are when the time comes. You don’t want any added stress when you’re grieving for your beloved pet.
Cremation
Many owners choose to arrange a cremation for their pet, either with their vet or with an external company. This can give you more options if you’re keen to memorialise your pet. You can keep your pet’s ashes in an urn close by, or scatter them at their favourite beach, for example.
Home burial
Another option is to bury your pet at home. Pick a spot in your garden where you can visit and remember the good times you had together. It’s important to bear in mind the laws around burying a pet. It’s only legal to bury an animal at a property you own. It’s not legal to bury them in rented accommodation or in public spaces.
Pet cemetery
You may choose to carry out a burial service at a pet cemetery or crematorium in your area. This is the most expensive option of the three. A pet cemetery will offer you a grave site where you can place a head stone or other memorial symbol for your pet.
Memoralising your pet
Owners often want a way to remember their pet after they die, and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Hold a memorial service
You could hold your own private memorial service for your pet at home. Invite friends and family along and say a few words about your pet, remembering the good times you shared together.
Make a donation to charity
A lovely way to remember your pet is by making a donation to help other animals in need. Some owners find comfort in redirecting their grief and making a difference to the lives of other animals.
Engrave a Pebble
Why not personalise a pebble which can have pride of place in a special part of your garden to ensure your dog or cat is always close by.
Engraved Jewellery
You could use a company that will engrave your pets paw print or name into a piece of jewellery. This is a lovely way to commemorate your pet and keep them close to your heart. There are also companies that will add some of your pets' ashes into coloured resin that is encorporated into the piece of jewellery itself.
Plant a tree
You could plant a tree or a pot of flowers in your garden to honour your pet’s memory. Many owners love this option as it’s continuing life and growth through the planting of the tree.
Make a photo album
Many of us like to take photos of our pets, so why not create a photo album to remember the good times. They can be a beautiful keepsake for you to grab whenever you want to reminisce.
