Guest Post Losing a beloved pet is incredibly hard. Our furry, feathered, and scaled friends become part of the family, and saying goodbye to them leaves an aching hole in our hearts. However, there are many meaningful, touching ways for us to continue honouring their memory and the joy they brought us.
Create a Memory Book
One of the most common and helpful ways people remember a pet who has passed away is to create a memory book. Go through all your photos, from the first days you brought them home to the last days you had together. Select your favourites that show their cute faces, funny poses, and sweet personality. Print the photos or make digital copies and compile them into photo albums or memory books, either using an online service or homemade style.
Looking through a memory book full of images of your beloved companion can help comfort you when the loss feels fresh. It also allows you to reflect on all the special times you shared. As the grief fades, it serves as a keepsake celebrating the meaning they brought to your life.
Hold a Memorial Service
If your pet was very social or part of community events, you may wish to hold some type of memorial service. This allows you, as well as family, friends, and neighbours whose lives they touched, to come together and honour their memory.
The service could be held at home, outdoors in a favourite park or play area. You can share stories, read poems, show a slideshow of photos, and comfort each other. Some people bury ashes or a special object like a collar afterward. Having this time to formally say goodbye as a group can bring peace and closure.
Create a Tribute Item
Another way to pay lasting tribute to a beloved pet is by having an item custom-made in their honour. Many services will allow you to upload a photo of your pet to be transferred onto objects like blankets, mugs, jewellery, and key chains.
One very meaningful memorial item is an engraved pet loss plaque or stone. These can be placed in your garden and serve as a touching reminder when you pass by it. A donation made in your pet’s name to an animal rescue or shelter is also an impactful honouring gesture.
Keep Beloved Toys or Items
While it may be difficult at first, you can find comfort by keeping some of your pet’s cherished toys or items around your home. Whether it is their favourite fuzzy bed, a beloved ball, or a squeaky toy, seeing personal items that held meaning to them can help you feel like a part of your pet is still with you.
Let the Memories Bring Smiles
The pain of losing a pet is acute because the joy they brought us was immense. While mourning is important, be sure to also let your memories bring smiles amid the tears. Remember the silly way they would sleep or funny habits they had that made you laugh. Share these heartwarming stories and moments with others to celebrate the great happiness your beloved pet brought to your life.
Though they may no longer be by your side, undertaking touching tributes and keepsakes helps ensure your treasured companion lives on in your heart and mind forever. Their unconditional love and ability to make you smile stays with you, even after they have crossed the rainbow bridge.