As your pet reaches geriatric status or is diagnosed with a terminal illness, you may begin thinking about the inevitable. How do you plan to celebrate your pet's life after their passing? Memorializing your cherished companion is very personal, but the decision may overwhelm you during your time of grief and sorrow. As a starting point, consider the following suggestions. ​

1. Customize a beautiful urn for your pet's ashes

If your pet is privately cremated, you can choose from a wide range of gorgeous urns to store their ashes in. Whether you'd like an urn that is simple, elegant, and made from metal, wood-carved with your favorite picture, or cast in your pet's image, their urn will look beautiful on a mantle or shelf. ​

2. Create a photo album or journal about your pet

Although the bond you shared with your pet will never fade, your memories may begin to. You can create a photo album or journal depicting your favorite adventures together to preserve those memories. Designing a scrapbook of your pet's life can be a wonderful hobby, and the completed album will be an excellent memorial. ​

3. Commission a painting of your pet​

A large portrait of your pet may be perfect for your home, whether you choose to enlarge a photograph or commission a custom painting. Many talented artists can follow your design requests for your pet's painting, whether you'd prefer something realistic or abstract. There are also companies that will take a photo of your pet and convert it into a 'paint by numbers' activity that you and your family could complete together. ​

4. Make a donation in your pet's name

Honoring your pet by saving another pet's life is a special memorial. Donations to a pet-related charity, veterinary school, or animal welfare organization, are always needed. Your pet's supplies could also make a great donation if you feel something monetary is less personal or you're looking for something more budget-friendly. If your pet's bedding, leash, collar, and toys are in good shape and you have no use for them, you could consider donating them to an animal shelter in your pet's name. ​

5. Create a keychain or piece of jewelry from your pet's ashes or fur

Creating a keychain or necklace pendant from your pet's ashes or fur is an excellent way to keep them close, with the added benefit of a beautiful jewelry piece or accessory. A small amount of your pet's ashes or a fur clipping can be mixed into a necklace pendant, ring, pair of earrings, or keychain, allowing you to keep part of your pet with you at all times. For something a bit more customizable and budget-friendly, you can also check your local craft store for an empty vial pendant that you could fill yourself. ​ Although the thought of your pet passing is incredibly difficult and sad, you can honor their memory and cherish your good times together with a fitting memorial. Ask your veterinarian if they have a memorial page for their patients. If you used Paws at Home to assist your pet through their final moments, consider filling out a tribute for our memorial page. ​