My pet died. Should I give them a funeral? 6 heartfelt ways to honour your pet’s memory

The intense grief we feel at the loss of a pet can be paralysing the same way the loss of a close friend or family member can be. Our pets are valuable members of our families, so any feelings of sadness, guilt, anger and loneliness you’re experiencing about their death are completely normal and shouldn’t be invalidated. There are numerous things you can do to help process these emotions and commemorate your pet’s life.

Hold a pet memorial or funeral service

Gathering close friends and family to share stories and celebrate the life of your pet can be a powerful part of the grieving process.

It’s up to you how intimate you want the ceremony to be – some people like to invite friends from the neighbourhood or park to spread ashes where your pet played, while others prefer to share the moment with immediate family in front of their pet’s grave.

Many pet crematoriums and cemeteries, like SE QLD’s Pets Eternal, offer individual and dignified pet memorial services. Whether you scatter ashes in a favourite spot or hold a ceremony at home, choose a location that feels meaningful; a place you can visit when you want to feel close to your pet again.

Create a keepsake album, scrapbook, or video

Putting together a photo album, scrapbook, or time capsule filled with your pet’s pictures, stories, and mementos is a wonderful way to celebrate their life.

This interactive project can be especially helpful for children, giving them a way to express emotions and reflect on the good times you shared. A memory box or digital slideshow can also help you revisit those moments whenever you need comfort.

Make a donation in their honour

Donating to an animal charity in your pet’s name is a beautiful way to honour your pet’s legacy. You can donate through the Petbarn Foundation, which has contributed over $29 million to animal welfare groups and rescue organisations across Australia since 2012.

Or, choose to donate directly to a charity that’s close to your heart, such as:

• RSPCA Australia
• World Animal Protection
• Cat Haven

No matter which organisation you choose, your donation continues your pet’s legacy by helping others in need.

Create a memorial symbol

Memorials can take many forms — from traditional headstones to living tributes that grow and flourish over time.

If you choose to bury your pet, a headstone or grave marker offers a permanent place to visit and reflect. Even if your pet was cremated, you could create a special space at home, like a shelf or corner with their urn, photos, and favourite toys. You might also plant a tree or flower garden in their honour, a living reminder that represents life continuing in new and beautiful ways.

Commission a piece of memorial artwork

Art can be a touching way to capture your pet’s spirit and keep their memory close. Many artists specialise in custom pet memorial pieces, such as:

• Portrait photos or paintings of your pet
• Art incorporating their ashes or fur
• Paw print imprints
• Jewellery or keepsakes containing ashes or hair

These unique pieces can serve as daily reminders of the joy your pet brought into your life.

Volunteer your time

If you’re not ready to bring another pet home, volunteering at an animal shelter or rescue organisation can be a healing way to honour your pet’s memory. Helping other animals find safety and love not only continues your pet’s legacy but also brings comfort and purpose during your own grieving journey.

Finding healing through remembrance

Losing a pet is never easy – for you, your family, or your other pets. Taking the time to remember and celebrate their life is a vital part of the healing process.

Whether you hold a ceremony, plant a garden, or simply light a candle in their memory, what matters most is that it feels right for you.

Our pets give us unconditional love, laughter, and companionship throughout their lives. The ways we choose to honour them after they’re gone is a reflection of that same love.

Looking for guidance on what to do after your pet passes?

If you’re unsure about next steps, our guide on what to do when your pet dies can help you navigate the practical and emotional aspects of saying goodbye.