August 28th is Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day. Many of us have had to say goodbye to a beloved furred (or scaled, or feathered) friend. It can be extremely painful, and even traumatic, to see a pet cross the Rainbow Bridge. However, there are some beautiful ways to honor your animal companion and pay tribute to their memory. An Aurora, CO vet suggests some wonderful options below.
Garden
One of the best ways to memorialize a pet is to plant something in their honor. This can be as small as a single potted plant. Or, if you have the space and inclination, create a whole garden.
Art
Art is a wonderful way to both capture an image and express emotion. If you’re an artsy type, create something in your pet’s memory. You can also print and frame a favorite photo. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different photo editing effects. You may love the way that candid photo of your dog looks as a watercolor or pencil sketch.
Poetry
Writing is very therapeutic. Consider writing a memorial poem or story for your pet. You can even write an obituary for them if you like. This is also something that you can keep and cherish forever. If you have kids, it may very well become something they grow to treasure themselves.
Scrapbooks
Scrapbooking is in many ways a combination of the things we’ve listed above. You can include a leaf from your dog’s favorite hiking spot. Or, add your cat’s collar. You can also incorporate photos, medical records, and anything you wrote yourself.
Ceramics
Another option is to paint something in memory of your pet. Add paw prints and your pet’s name to a plant pot or a ceramic bowl. You can also create a customized memorial stone for a garden, patio, or walkway.
Donations
Another thing you can do is make a donation to an animal charity or rescue in the name of your animal companion. It can be very comforting to know that you’re helping other animals in need. Monetary donations are always welcome, but you can also donate supplies.
If you’ve recently lost a pet, please accept sincere condolences from all of us here at Aspen Commons Animal Hospital, your Aurora, CO vet clinic. We’re all animal lovers too, and we know how difficult it is to say goodbye.
