Celebrating Pet Memorials: Why Invest in a Cremation for Your Beloved Companion
When our pets pass away, it can be challenging to decide what to do with their remains. Some pet owners opt for cremation, which offers a thoughtful and respectful way to honor their beloved companions. As a pet owner who has experienced the loss of cherished pets, I want to share my personal journey and beliefs about why considering cremation is a worthwhile investment.
Understanding Cremation Options
Traditionally, you have two main options when it comes to pet cremation: single cremation and group cremation. Single cremation involves one pet at a time and typically comes with the option to retain the ashes. Group cremation, on the other hand, involves multiple pets at once and is usually less expensive. As a veterinarian, the vet I work with offers both options, and I have chosen the latter for some of my beloved cats due to the cost and my personal preference not to have the ashes.
The Importance of Humane Treatment for Pets
I strongly believe that humans should also have the same humane treatment options available to them after passing. My wife, for instance, has requested orders to spend as little as legally possible when I die, which highlights the importance of affordable and thoughtful final arrangements. It is our responsibility, as pet owners, to ensure that our pets are treated with dignity and respect, just as we would for ourselves.
Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned
Over the past year, we have had four beloved cats cremated. As a couple who rescued and cared for these cats for many years, we made sure that each one was given a proper send-off. We took turns paying for each cremation and the associated vet bills. Our financial situation was not ideal, but we prioritized our pets' well-being.
There was one instance where we could not afford to cremate a cat 10 years ago. Instead, we buried her near our bedroom window. The thought of not having the chance to give her a proper goodbye was a heartbreaking reality for us. We have made sure that our current cat, Cleopatra, is buried in a side yard where we can visit her if we move. This commitment to our pets extends beyond our time together and into the future.
Emotional Impact and Comfort
Our pets often become more than just companions; they become integral parts of our lives, providing comfort and support during difficult times. Our dog, whom we deeply loved and relied on during the loss of our husband, served as a constant companion. When she passed away due to kidney failure, we made the decision to help her go peacefully. While the loss still feels raw, her ashes now serve as a tangible reminder of her love and presence in our home.
The importance of preserving our pets' remains cannot be understated. People might think it exaggerates their importance, but for many pet owners, pets are family members and deserve similar treatment as humans. It's about creating meaningful tributes to their loved ones and ensuring that their final moments are remembered with dignity.
Planning for the Future
As a pet owner, I plan to wait for my ashes to be returned to me before my passing. I will wash her bedding and toys and donate them to a local pet rescue group to continue her legacy. I believe in combining all our pet ashes in a family setting, allowing loved ones to take a small amount to their gardens, and releasing the rest at sea in a beautiful tropical island area. This thoughtful approach allows us to honor our pets in a way that provides comfort and solace.
Conclusion
Investing in a pet cremation service is an act of love and respect for our beloved companions. It offers a way to honor their memory and provides comfort during a difficult time. As pet owners, we have a responsibility to ensure that our pets are treated with dignity and that their final days are lived to the fullest. Whether it's for humans or pets, every life deserves to be celebrated in a meaningful way.