Honoring Your Dog with Unique Memorial Tributes
Have you ever pondered how to commemorate your canine companion once they've crossed the rainbow bridge? Losing your dog can be an emotionally overwhelming experience, making it challenging to find the perfect way to pay tribute. I vividly recall saying goodbye to my soul dog; in the midst of this horrible experience, I was presented with a laminated menu of urns to select from. It was nearly impossible to even see the pictures through my tears, and I found myself unable to make a meaningful choice from these impersonal, cookie-cutter urns, instead, I opted for a simple cedar box, a decision that still causes me guilt. Over the years, I've contemplated various alternatives but remained undecided, until now.
Recently, thanks to a fellow photographer, I discovered a unique solution in the form of frames specially designed to hold of dog's ashes. These frames come in an array of colors and offer different options, such as displaying a photo alone or alongside a cherished collar. There's even a third option that combines an image, a collar, and a tag. I've settled on the image with a collar, and while I don't have it in my possession just yet, I'm excited to share what it will look like.
Once the frame arrives, I'll promptly replace the placeholder image with a real one. I'm also contemplating the idea of replacing the generic urns I currently have for my other dogs who have crossed the bridge with these elegant frames. Admittedly, making decisions isn't my strong suit, so I'll take some extra time to carefully weigh my options. However, I've included samples of the frames I might order if I ultimately decide to make the switch. As for the frame colors, that's a detail I'm still uncertain about.
If my affection for these frames matches my expectations, I intend to extend them as an option to my clients for their end-of-life sessions.
Selecting an urn is a conventional method to honor your dog, but there are numerous other ways to keep their memory alive.
If your dog is still here:
Arrange a Professional Portrait Session
If your dog is still by your side, consider hiring a photographer for a special portrait session. This will provide you with meaningful images that capture the essence of your beloved dog, preserving their memory in a visual form.
Create Personalized Paw or Nose Print Art
Another wonderful option while your dog is still with you is crafting paw or nose print art, which can be done on ceramics or garden stones. Ensure you use pet-friendly, non-toxic inks, paints, and materials for this creative project.
If Your Dog Has Passed and You're Seeking Special Ways to Remember:
Donate a memorial brick
Support organizations like Pawtastic Friends, which rely on donations to aid homeless dogs. They offer a memorial program that includes personalized patio bricks to honor your dog, leaving a lasting physical legacy.
Volunteer for Animal Nonprofits
Dedicate your time and skills to nonprofit organizations that help animals, especially on significant dates like your pet's birthday or Gotcha Day. Your contribution can make a meaningful impact on the lives of other animals in need.
Invest in a Memorial Tree
Consider planting a tree in your yard, or purchasing a memorial tree from Better Place Forests to pay tribute to your dog. Planting a special tree in their memory can create a lasting and beautiful tribute.
Repurpose Their Bowls into House Planters
Depending on the material, you can repurpose your dog's food or water bowls as unique houseplant containers. Personalize them by adding their name, attaching their collar, or hand-painting designs to make a heartfelt home for a new plant.
Celebrate Special Dates
Mark significant occasions like your dog's birthday, Gotcha Day, or the anniversary of their passing by taking time off work. Plan activities like hiking in a place you shared together or inviting an animal-loving friend to join you. Prepare remembrance celebrations in advance to look forward to these meaningful days.
Write a letter
Writing offers a therapeutic way to express your grief or gratitude for the time you spent with your pet. Consider penning a heartfelt letter as a way to cope with your emotions
Compose a Pet Obituary
Explore platforms like Pet Heaven and Ever Loved, where you can post pet obituaries. Even if you choose not to share it publicly, writing an obituary can be a cathartic and loving gesture to remember your cherished companion.
I hope this list helps you honor your dog's memory while allowing you to create a lasting tribute that reflects the unique bond you shared.
To explore additional resources on pet loss or anticipatory grief, I invite you to visit One Last Network. There, you'll find valuable support and guidance to navigate this emotional journey and find solace in the loving memories of your furry companions.
This blog post is part of an international pet photographer blog circle. To read more posts on the topic of pet memorials, please follow the link at the bottom of each post, starting with: Kim Hollis of BARKography discusses the last 12 months without her chocolate lab Moose.
2 Comments
Sep 12, 2023, 1:15:36 PM
Nicole Hrustyk - I want to try the dog bowls too, but I wonder if mine are too shallow.
Sep 8, 2023, 4:14:49 PM
Kim Hollis - These are such great ideas and it makes me think, I need to buy prettier dog bowls. I love the idea of using them as planters.