How a pet memorial can bring comfort to a child


The passing of a beloved pet is difficult to accept, but for a child the loss can be even more distressing. The pet may well have been the child's companion for the whole of their life and when this time comes to an end, emotional support during the grieving process is essential. A pet memorial as a celebration of their furry friend's life can bring great comfort and give the opportunity to show the respect
and love the pet deserves.



Telling a child that their pet has simply 'gone away' can leave them believing that they did something wrong, or that they weren't loved enough. This won't enable them to go through the natural period of grief that enables us all to mourn and finally accept that the pet is at peace. Young children may not have previously experienced the death of someone close to them and find it difficult to understand. Memorialising a pet with a simple burial ceremony and marking their place of rest with a memorial plaque can bring acceptance of the cycle of life which all living beings travel.
 Replacing a pet immediately after their journey with us has come to an end, isn't the solution to grief, although welcoming a new pet into the family may well be right after a little time has passed. We are likely to always remember the name of our very first pet and to hold their memory in our hearts. Encouraging a child to draw a picture of their pet companion and be helped to write a prayer or a few loving words gives them the opportunity to express how special their friend has been to them and will continue to be.

If you have had to make the difficult decision to euthanise a very unwell pet, children need to know that this is an act of kindness and that the best care was given throughout their life and they are now in no pain and are at rest. You may like to involve your child in choosing the pet casket, headstone or memorial plaque and all at Pets Remembered have experienced how this can be an important step in the healing process.


If you feel that a cremation is more appropriate, the child can share in the scattering of the ashes in a spot with special significance and then marked with a pet memorial plaque. The chosen place can be visited on days of remembrance as a celebration and thanks for the pet's loyalty and companionship and all the enjoyable times spent together.

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