Anyone who has owned a beloved pet understands the love and affection we have for these creatures whether they be furry, fluffy, feathered or none of the above. We at Laurelbox understand the devastation of losing an animal family member and the loss that is felt. That’s why we offer a variety of pet memorial keepsakes to pay tribute to our furry friends. There’s no better time to honor our lost pets than on National Pet Memorial Day, which occurs on the second Sunday of September. The holiday gives pet owners across the country the opportunity to honor and remember pets through a variety of ways. 

In 1972, the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories established Pet Memorial Day. National Pet Memorial Day is simply a day to pause and remember the lives of animals who share space in our hearts, even after they are no longer with us. It also provides an opportunity to intentionally honor a lost pet and stand in solidarity with others who have experienced that same grief. You may be wondering what are some ways to honor a lost pet on National Pet Memorial Day? Keep reading for some unique ideas and keepsake gifts. 

Just like with any grief, there is no right or wrong way to honor a pet. Here are some suggestions but be creative and think about what works best for you and your specific situation. 

Pet Loss Keepsake - There are so many special items available. From custom candles that include a picture, to necklaces with paw prints, or even custom photo frames, check out the different items available. 

Pet Memorial Garden - We know being outside is generally good for us all the time, but especially during grief. Consider choosing a pet memorial garden stone, some seed packets and a custom wind chime. If you haven’t read last month’s blog about the healing power of wind chimes, read it now!

Volunteer Your Time - If you found your furry companion at a nearby shelter, consider volunteering with that same shelter in honor of your dog or cat. Research has shown there are substantial health benefits to volunteering our time and giving back to the community. 

Make a Photo Book - I’m a sucker for photo books. In this digital age, it feels extra special to hold a physical book full of pictures of those we love, pets included. Take some time to go through photos and create a lasting memory book you and your family can enjoy for years to come. Here is a roundup of some good photo book websites, but I’ve used Shutterfly and ChatBooks in the past and been happy. 

Donate to a Worthy Cause - Have you ever looked into the science behind giving a gift and what it does to the brain? It’s fascinating! Scientists call it the “warm glow” effect because giving a gift activates regions of our brain associated with pleasure, social connection and trust. Basically, giving to a worthy cause in honor of your pet is a win-win! 

Create a Shadow Box - Consider putting together a shadow box in honor of your pet. It could include a few pictures, their tag or leash, and a favorite toy. Display it somewhere in your house where it will bring a bittersweet smile to your face each time you walk by and remember all the sweet memories you shared. 

If you look around, there are some incredibly thoughtful pet keepsakes. I personally know a fantastic and gifted artist (she just graduated high school!) who does custom pet portraits by hand. They are incredible and so realistic whether they be acrylic paintings or graphite drawings. Commissioning a pet portrait from her would be a special way to remember your pet. 

Uncommon Goods is another fun and trendy spot to browse a variety of pet gifts that range from custom pet cufflinks to personalized pillows with your pet. No matter how you choose to honor your pet’s life, know the effort will be worth it. 

Notice I didn’t say “How to Heal FROM Pet Grief” - because just like with any grief, it’s something you always carry. The pain will obviously lessen over time, but the special memories and sadness you feel over the loss will always be felt in some capacity. It might be helpful to read through some articles that focus on coping with losing a pet. If you are wondering about how to help a child deal with the loss of a pet, check out this blog from earlier in the summer. Keep in mind, you may be experiencing pet grief even if your pet didn't die, but instead had to leave for some reason. My husband and I had to rehome our beloved golden labrador Sadie when we lived in Washington DC. Our son had started crawling and we lived in a small townhouse with no real backyard and worked full-time jobs. We made the unbelievably hard decision to let Sadie go live with a different family because they had older kids who desperately wanted a big dog and they had a huge property for her to run and play. Honestly, that loss affected my husband in a big way. He grieved saying goodbye to Sadie for years. We gave her away almost 10 years ago and he still has a picture of her framed on his bedside table! These furry companions snuggle into our hearts and leave big holes when they depart. 

We hope this blog was helpful in giving you various ways to honor a pet on National Pet Memorial Day this September 8th. Whether you choose a pet keepsake, a memorial garden, a custom shadow box or honor your pet through volunteering or giving a monetary donation, do something to remember their role in your family. Share with our community how you are marking the day by tagging us @laurelbox and use the hashtag #nationalpetmemorialday.