Honoring

WAYS TO HONOR YOUR PET

 

• Talk to your pet.  Share with them your favorite memories and the things you miss most about them.  

• Look at photos and videos.  Some will make you laugh and some will make you cry; that’s ok.  If you feel inclined, perhaps you could make a scrapbook.

• Share stories with family and friends about your dear pet.  Also, ask others about their favorite memory of your pet;
  you may hear a story you have never heard before.

• Write a letter to your pet, date it and put it in a keepsake box.  There are many different kinds of letters you could write. Here are some letter suggestions if you aren’t sure what to write:

         Thank you . . . 

         I miss you . . .

         What I have learned about myself because of you. . .

         What I loved most about you. . . 

         What I wish I could have told you. . .

• Play songs that remind you of your pet

• Light a memory candle 

• Journal—you do not need to be a writer to journal.  You don’t even need to write in complete sentences.  Writing down a simple thought or memory has many benefits including releasing pent up thoughts and emotions, calming troubled memories, and offering new perspectives of hope.

• Volunteer—volunteering can lead to a rush of euphoria and release endorphins—similar feelings you embraced with your beloved pet. It can help you combat depression, give you an increased sense of purpose and self-worth, help you feel more connected to others and help reduce loneliness.  

• Donate to a favorite rescue or shelter in memory of your pet

 

Many of you may have your very own way to memorialize your pet that is not listed. We all grieve differently so please embrace what works for YOU.  

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