Pets are an integral part of our lives. If you have a pet, you realize that many aspects of life include your beloved pet.
Pets are family members that are with us so much of our lives and remain until the end.
When the end comes, it is devastating. Often it affects multiple people and while all may hurt, each person grieves differently. Other pets of the family also understand the passing and grieve. Grief lessens in time. This time frame is different for all. I’ve witnessed the grieving process being less than a week and sometimes over a year. Grief and missing a lost pet are not the same. Missing a pet is generally lifelong as we will always have memories and miss those moments. Grief is like your heart has been broken and will never recover.
Children are especially sensitive to pet loss as they have special bonds with pets similar to siblings. Efforts to console children should be kept at the forefront of your mind even while dealing with your own grief.
It has been noted that there are many things you can do that help.
Have a memorial ceremony that includes family/friends with the opportunity to speak and say goodbye.
Planting a tree or plant in their memory or making a small memorial garden.
Make or buy a small wooden keepsake box for favorite toys, collars and even hairs.
A memorial stone to place on the burial spot or if not buried the memorial can be placed in a garden, at their favorite outdoor spot or at a tree planted in their memory.
No matter what you decide is the best idea for you, all pets deserve a memorial. A memorial will one day bring a smile of happy memories.
At Melton Memorials we believe all pets deserve a memorial, even if it’s simply a small stone with a name. Each memorial we make, we realize there is a recipient somewhere that has been heartbroken. Whether it’s for you or a gift for a friend we can help.
Don’t cry because it’s over, Smile because it happened.
Dr. Seuss
Guest article from meltonmemorials.com