Memorializing Your Furry Friends

 

I know this isn't for everyone but I thought I would just throw it out there anyway in case someone is interested.  

Here is CC's wooden memorial box with her ashes. And a ceramic mold of her paw (Paw Print).

CC

When we had to put CC to sleep last July we decided to have her cremated.  

The Vet was so compassionate and allowed me to hold CC while she administered the medication.  It was a peaceful way for CC to pass on.  

We had been blessed with her company for 20 years.

Once my husband and I started taking in stray cats, we grew to love them so much that we did whatever was needed to keep them healthy.  That included yearly checkups, teeth cleaning, emergency care, etc.

We had 3 cats cremated. Since they were a huge part of our family we have no problem having their ashes on display in our home.

Ashes and Photos of:  CC, Buddy and Mutchka

Remember: You have options if your cat gets sick and needs to be euthanized.  Or if they die naturally. Your Veterinarian will guide you and explain your choices. 

This time our Vet took care of everything. The pet cemetery picked CC up from the hospital and returned her after the cremation in a modest cherry wood memorial box with the paw print. Our Vet had the prices as well and we paid there.

Buddy was euthanized and we took him to the cemetery ourselves.  They offered burial, cremation with burial or just cremation.  We chose cremation and wanted to take him home.

Mutchka died at home and we took him to the cemetery for cremation.  

You can buy a box or urn online, if you prefer, at sites like Amazon or Chewy.com.  Also, if you are limited on resources you have the choice of communal cremation ($30-70) vs. private ($60-150).  Some facilities will even allow you to be present for the cremation if you so wish.

Pet Cemeteries also offer private viewings in a chapel like setting with soft lighting, music, candles and flowers.  We did that with Mutchka.  It was quite lovely and peaceful.

Note: Do what is right for you.  Do what you can afford.  Don't feel pressured into making choices on the spot.  You can take a day or so and think about the options given to you.

Keepsakes

Do a simple online search to find lots of companies that can create items from cremated remains. 

• Jewelry can be created to store a small bit of your pet’s cremated remains. Some companies incorporate the remains into the jewelry itself. Others, like Eterneva, allow you to send in your cat's cremated remains and will turn them into customize memorial diamonds.

• Have a suncatcher made or another decorative item made of glass. 

• Consider checking out Etsy stores. Artists can create customized pieces.

• Turn your cat's ashes into cremation stones you can hold in your hand, with Parting Stone.

Let me know what you think and share your stories!