Five Ideas for Remembering Your Pet

River Valley Pet Cremation Society • March 3, 2026

You've lost a beloved pet and want to pay tribute to the unconditional love and companionship they gave you over the years, but where do you start?

How do you cope with the grief of losing a beloved companion? Here are five ways to honor the memory of the pet who was by your side through thick and thin.


Write An Obituary

Pets are family and should be treated as such. We honor our human family members with an obituary to announce their death, share their life stories, preserve their memories, and provide closure, so why not our pets? Every family served by the River Valley Pet Cremation Society receives an online tribute for their pet as part of our signature package.


Create Keepsakes

Have a paw print ornament made or create jewelry from their ashes. Get a tattoo, place pictures in frames, or find other tangible items that keep their memory alive. Keepsakes can help pet owners process their grief. Every family served by the River Valley Pet Cremation Society receives a paw (or foot) print ornament keepsake as part of our signature package.


Pass On the Love

Donate your pet’s toys, blankets, or other items to a shelter or other pet owner where they will continue to be useful and bring comfort to another animal companion.


Celebrate in Their Honor

On their birthday or the anniversary of their passing, take the day off or do something special in their honor. Visit their favorite park, donate supplies to a vet clinic or money to a shelter or animal organization in your pet’s name.


Save a New Life

Adopting a new pet doesn’t disrespect the relationship or memory of your previous one. Every situation is unique and you’ll know when you’re ready to share your love with another animal companion. Doing so can help you process your grief and a fresh start can help fill the empty place in your heart.


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