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 Because our relationships with our animals are often very deep, saying goodbye to them at the end of their lives can be more difficult than we expect.

"When words are inadequate, ceremony and ritual help us express our profound thoughts and feelings."  — Alan Wolfelt

Sometimes, when a pet is old or ill, it's difficult to made the decision about when and if to have her or him euthanized ("put to sleep"). If this is the case for you, consider having a ceremony to celebrate her/his life with you. This process may allow you to step back from focusing on the decision, and that can allow you the perspective you need to make a clear decision.

I can help you create this ceremony: I meet with you to gather the information, write the tribute, design the Celebration, and even conduct it if you would like.

To honor and say goodbye to your beloved animal companion, gather the people (and pets, if appropriate) who are important to your special buddy. This gives your friends the opportunity to say a final goodbye. It allows you to experience the support of your friends as you give your pet the gift of leaving a failing body.

I am very comfortable being present at euthanasia procedures (sometimes referred to as being "put to sleep"), and would be pleased to create a ceremony for you and your pet.

A ceremony can be held a day or two before the euthanasia.

If the euthanasia will occur at your home or another favorite place you and your pet have enjoyed together, the ceremony can begin an hour or so before the vet arrives so that you can be surrounded by loved ones before, during and after the procedure.

Your friends can wait outside during the euthanasia and then surround you with their care after the procedure. The body may still be present, or you may desire their support as the body is taken away.

If you chose to transport the body to a crematory, your friends can create a procession with you and be with you as the body is received by the staff.

The ceremony can be centered around the burial. This may include digging the grave and/or filling it in.

A Remembrance Ceremony can be held at any time afterward, including at the time of the scattering of the cremains ("ashes").

These ceremonies must be designed with more flexibility, to leave room for the unexpected. The choice of when to hold it should take into account how comfortable your pet is with your human friends.

So let's consider the options and make the best choice for your situation. I'm happy to talk with you without obligation. Please give me a call or drop me an email.

(Yes, these kinds of ceremonies can be done for humans also.)

Any other transition you and your pet experience can be marked with a ceremony. Please contact me with any questions you may have.

Your beloved pet deserves to be honored. And you deserve to have your life together, as well as this transition, memorialized.