How to Make a Doggie Obituary

Dogs are valued friends, protectors, playmates and partners in adventure. Family pets are often considered members of the family, and pet parents may share their dogs with houseguests and other community members. When your pet passes away, you can seek comfort in treasured memories and corresponding with other dog lovers. A dog obituary -- like traditional obituaries -- celebrates the deceased and invites others to offer condolences.

Instructions

    • 1

      Tell friends and family members about your decision to write an obituary and invite them to collaborate.

    • 2

      Select a flattering picture of your pet in happier times.

    • 3

      Include the dog's name, birth date and date of passing at the top of the obituary. For example: "Peppy (1994 -- 2009)."

    • 4

      Describe your pet positively in the first paragraph or sentence, including a happy memory or special quality your pet possessed. For example: "He was a special miniature schnauzer, always greeting me at the door with a smile and a wagging tail after a hard day's work."

    • 5

      Mention the dog's cause of death, if appropriate. You may also mention a charity that helps dogs, and invite others to contribute to the charity. If writing an online obituary, link directly to the charity. For example: "Peppy passed away at 14 years of age after a struggle with cancer, but always kept a positive attitude. [The owners] are collecting donations to the Miniature Schnauzer Rescue Association to help dogs like Peppy."

    • 6

      Write your name and other family members' names at the end of the obituary. For example: "Peppy is missed by Steven, Karl, Bradley and Mildred."

    • 7

      Include funeral service information, if holding a funeral for the pet. This includes the date, time and location of the service.

    • 8

      Give the obituary draft to other family members to proofread and approve.

    • 9

      Submit your obituary. Ask your local newspaper if they will accept your dog's obituary in their obituary section, or pay to take out an ad. You can also submit the obituary to an online pet obituary site, such as Ruling Cats and Dogs, Doggie Gazette or Heavenly Paws. Another option is to upload the obituary, or a link to the obituary online, to your personal blog or website.