I recently received an email from a niece whose friend had just lost a dog. My niece wanted to express her sympathy but needed some ideas as to what she could do.
The loss of a beloved pet can be an extremely difficult time in our lives. For many of us, our pets are part of our family and their loss is no different than the loss of a relative. And as with any loss, there is no right or wrong way to grieve or to express your sympathy for another who is grieving.
Many of our customers have shared their pet loss stories and suggestions for expressing sympathy. Here are some of their ideas for "celebrating the life, not the loss" plus a couple of ours:
- Plant a shrub or tree in your pet's favorite place in the yard or plant a flower garden in his or her honor.
- Create a keepsake scrapbook or shadow box for hanging. Include photos, funny stories, special memories, coat clippings and puppy teeth (if you saved them).
- Purchase wind chimes and have it engraved with the pet's name or special sentiment. Every time the wind blows, you will be reminded of your dear friend.
- Take photos of your pet to a local artist and have a portrait done. Many artists are more than happy to work from photographs.
- Make a donation to an animal rescue organization in memory of the pet who has passed.
- Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Giving your extra time to help shelter pets find new homes is a lovely tribute to your companion.
- Hang Tibetan Prayer Flags in your yard. As the flags fade from the elements, so will your grief.
- Keep your pet close to your heart with an engraved sterling silver charm necklace.
Tibetan Pet Loss Prayer Flags
Sterling Silver Engraved Charms
If you have additional suggestions, please comment to this blog.
