Memorials are More Than Just Urns
Unique Ideas for Honoring Your Pet (other than urns!)
When you think of a pet memorial, the image of a traditional urn probably comes to mind. While urns have their place and are still a popular choice for many pet owners, there’s a whole world of options that many are unaware of — options that might expand your definition of “memorial” altogether, which isn’t strictly limited to a vessel for ashes.
There are so many ways to preserve a pet’s memory and honor the bond you shared, whether or not you choose to collect their remains.
The importance of memorializing your pet
For many pet owners, memorialization is an important part of processing the grief that comes with losing a pet, providing a tangible way to remember and cherish the relationship you shared.
But just as grief is an individual journey, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to pet memorials — a fact which can provide its own form of comfort during a tough time. By exploring a wide range of options until you find the right fit, you’re honoring their memory by ensuring that your pet’s memorial will be just as unique as they are.
Non-urn pet memorial options
Vase Urns:
Vase urns are a creative alternative to traditional urns, offering an elegant and artful way to display your pet’s ashes that many people may not realize is an urn at all.
Jewelry:
Memorial jewelry is a beautiful way to keep your pet close to your heart. You can find pieces designed to hold a small portion of cremated remains or simply feature your pet’s name and a special message. Explore unique jewelry options on Etsy to find the perfect piece.
Solidified Remains:
Parting Stone provides an innovative approach to pet memorials by transforming your pet’s ashes into a solid, tactile memorial stone that can be held, displayed, or even kept in a garden. You can also find memorial jewelry showcasing solidified ashes transformed into wearable art.
Living Memorial:
Companies like The Living Urn and Let Your Love Grow offer the ability to incorporate cremated ashes into the soil of a memorial plant, allowing your pet’s memory to live on in a beautiful and enduring way. Options range widely, from decorative indoor planters to trees that can be planted in your yard.
Artwork:
Art has the power to capture the essence of your pet’s spirit. Whether you choose a painting that incorporates ashes into the artwork or a custom pet portrait, artwork is a lasting tribute to your companion.
Framed Photos or Photo Book:
Reminisce about the good times and the adventures you shared by showcasing your favorite photo in a beautiful frame or compiling a collection in a custom memory book. If your pet is still with you, arranging an end-of-life photo shoot with a professional pet photographer can provide memories of their final days that you’ll come to treasure.
Memorial Service:
Hosting a memorial service provides an opportunity to come together with friends and family to celebrate your pet’s life. Share stories, reminisce, and find solace in knowing that your pet’s impact reached beyond your home.
Scattering of Ashes or Tree Planting:
If you’d like to incorporate a natural element into the memorialization process, consider scattering your pet’s ashes in a meaningful location. This can be a park, a body of water, or any place that held significance for you and your pet. If you choose not to collect your pet’s remains, consider memorializing them by planting a symbolic tree or perennial that you can watch grow and admire for years to come.
Celebration of Life with Pet & Human Friends:
Organize a celebration of life event, inviting pet and human friends to commemorate your pet’s memory. Bring treats, toys, and food to share, or ask people to bring items for donation to your local pet shelter. This type of gathering can be a heartwarming way to honor your pet and find support in your community.
In the end, your pet’s memorial is a reflection of the unique bond you shared: a tribute to their life, and to the joy they brought to yours. With so many non-urn options out there, you don’t have to look far to find a distinctive way to honor your pet’s memory.