Remember Your Pet on National Pet Memorial Day September 5, 2024

The second Sunday every September, we observe National Pet Memorial Day. This is a special day dedicated to honoring and remembering those pets who have passed away. We celebrate their lives and our memories together by paying tribute to the deep, indescribable bond we share with our pets.

Pet Memorials Have a Long History

In 2011, archaeologists discovered what is thought to be a 2,000 year old pet cemetery in Egypt. Most of the almost 600 animals uncovered so far were cats, and many were buried with beaded collars, pieces of shells, and other decorations. An ostracon, or a piece of ceramic with writing etched onto it, was also found with references to the owner’s beloved cat etched into the surface.

Alexander the Great, the king of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedonia, honored his beloved dog, Peritas, in the 4th century BCE by naming a city after him. Alexander’s famous horse, Bucephalus, was similarly honored with a namesake city. He also reportedly led a funeral procession around the tomb he had built to honor Bucephalus.

Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye terrier, guarded his beloved owner’s graveside in 1860s Edinburgh, Scotland for many years after his passing. Local community members were so moved by his devotion that they erected a statue in 1872 in his honor that reads in part,”Let his loyalty and devotion be a lesson to us all.”

Famous memorials in honor of Balto and Hachiko also have thousands of visitors each year to celebrate their lives and memories.

Pet Memorials Have a Purpose

National Pet Memorial Day gives us a chance to remember and honor our pets. Having a tangible way to acknowledge your loss is an important step in processing your grief over the loss of your beloved pet. At Paws, Whiskers & Wags we believe that every day is an opportunity to celebrate our pets, but this holiday offers us a particular moment for observance and remembrance. Because their isn’t always a societal pattern for grieving your pet, we often don’t know what to do with our grief, either publicly or even privately.

How Can I Celebrate National Pet Memorial Day?

Here are some meaningful ways to celebrate and pay tribute to your beloved pet:

1. Create a Memorial Tribute: Make a scrapbook, photo album, or online obituary featuring photos and memories of your pet. You could also write a letter or a poem about them to share with your friends and family.
2. Visit Your Pet’s Favorite Spot: Take a moment to visit a place that was special to your pet, such as a park, a favorite walking trail, their favorite spot in your home, or even the place where you scattered their ashes. Giving yourself space for a moment of reflection and gratitude is an important part of healing in the grieving process.
3. Plant a Tree or Garden: Plant a tree, flower, or garden in memory of your pet. Plants have historically been a symbol of nourishment and beauty, and honoring the memory of your pet with a living tribute is a gift to future generations.
4. Hold a Candlelight Vigil: Light a candle in remembrance of your pet and spend a quiet moment reflecting on the joy they brought to your life.
5. Donate to an Animal Charity: Make a donation to a local animal shelter, rescue organization, or pet-related charity in honor of your pet. Many animal rescue groups also need volunteers to help transport pets, work at their shelters, or even to foster in your home.
6. Create a Memorial Ornament: Design a special ornament to hang on a holiday tree or display in your home that commemorates your pet.
7. Artistic Tribute: Create a piece of art that represents your pet. This could be a drawing, painting, sculpture, or custom portrait that captures their essence.
8. Create a Memory Box: Gather mementos like their collar, favorite toys, or other keepsakes and place them in a memory box to cherish.
9. Spend Time with Current Pets: If you have other pets, spend extra time with them, giving them love and attention. It can be comforting and a way to honor the bond you had with your lost pet.
10. Reach Out to Others: Share memories with your family and friends. Reach out to those who have also lost their pet, and listen as they share their memories. Grief is a burden more easily carried with others, and take the opportunity to support one another. Join our Pet Loss Support Group to share with others whose beloved pets have passed away.

These activities can help you celebrate the life of your pet and find comfort in remembering the joy they brought to your life. Please contact us if you need any assistance in memorializing your pet, and know that we remember and honor your pet’s memory this month with you.