Ways to remember a pet
Popular ways to memorialize a pet include a paw print keepsake, planting a tree or garden, a framed collar, a photo book, a memorial video made from their photos, keeping or scattering their ashes somewhere they loved, and donating to a shelter in their name. Choose what fits your family.
Updated November 6, 2026
Keepsakes
- A clay or ink paw print, often offered by the vet
- Their collar and tag in a shadow box
- A small jar or locket with a little fur
- A custom portrait from a favorite photo
Places
- Plant a tree, shrub or bed of flowers
- An engraved stone in the garden or a planter
- Scatter ashes at their favorite walk, beach or park (check local rules)
Stories
- A photo book of their life, with captions from the whole family
- A memorial video of them running free, made from your photos; see our memorial video
- Write down the funny things: the habits, the nicknames, the one time they stole the turkey
Giving back
- Donate to the shelter or rescue they came from
- Volunteer, or foster when you're ready
What to do with their ashes
Many families keep them in an urn at home. Others scatter them somewhere meaningful, bury them under a new tree, or have a small amount made into jewelry. There's no right timeline; it's fine to wait until you know what feels right.
Questions
How do you honor a pet that passed away?
Keep something of theirs (a paw print, collar or photo book), mark a place (a tree or garden stone), and tell their story, whether that's in writing, a photo book or a memorial video.