How to Have a Funeral for a Dog

Losing a beloved family member is never easy. Many people consider their dogs just as much a part of the family as the human members -- almost as if the pets were related by blood. When a dog dies, it is important to honor its memory with whatever type of memorial service you and your family are comfortable with. This can consist of a small, intimate gathering around your dog's grave or a formal ceremony at a pet crematory.

Things You'll Need

  • Pictures of your dog
  • Songs or poems that remind you of your pet
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Instructions

  1. Making Plans

    • 1

      Determine which type of service would best honor the memory of your dog: a religious ceremony, a simple memorial or a few informal words at the graveside.

    • 2

      Decide whether you want to bury or cremate your dog. Burial, either in a pet cemetery or at home, is best for owners who want a permanent place they can visit to remember their dog. Cremation allows owners to spread the ashes in a favorite spot.

    • 3

      If working with a veterinary office, pet cemetery or crematory, a liaison will assist you in planning the details of your pet's burial or cremation. If you decide to bury your pet at home, first contact your local Humane Society or Dead Animal Disposal Unit for legal guidelines regarding placement of a pet grave.

    • 4

      Choose an appropriate site for the funeral. Some options are at the grave (either at home or in a pet cemetery), in the reception room at a pet crematory, or in your home. If you are gathering with friends and family to spread your dog's ashes, choose a spot that your dog was fond of, such as a favorite shade tree or a beloved lake.

    • 5

      Gather several pictures of your dog and arrange them in frames at the funeral site, placing them beside the grave and near the seating/standing area. Include pictures of your dog with you and other members of your family.

    • 6

      Print out poems, song lyrics or quotes that remind you of your dog. If there are appropriate facilities at the funeral site, bring along an MP3 player or CDs with songs that make you think of your beloved pet.

    The Funeral Service

    • 7

      Begin the funeral with a few inspirational words. They may be religious in nature or not, depending on your personal views.

    • 8

      Share some happy memories of your dog and encourage the other funeral attendees to do the same.

    • 9

      Say goodbye to your faithful companion and thank him for the years you spent together.