Planning Ahead
When working with our clients who have previously lost their animal companions, we often hear them say they wished they had taken the time to explore all the options available. Making decisions surrounding illness, death and loss often becomes even more difficult because of the emotions involved and the interpersonal challenges we all meet when faced with losing someone.
We realize how necessary it is to be fully engaged when helping families take those first steps. Cathy has been a part of our team since the beginning. When you call, she is who you will most likely speak to first and is fully capable to help in any way. Her depth of experience comes from a life devoted to animals on many levels, understanding how impactful their lives are to our well-being. “I experience a deep level of compassionate empathy for the families I see because I understand what it feels like to lose a pet, a family member. Their pain resonates with me, so I listen and acknowledge the pain. Pain tells me their pet is deeply loved even if it was only for a short time in some cases, I find a deep sense of peace knowing that their love changed a life forever."
Here are some ideas for you to consider:
Would you prefer a private, communal or family attended cremation?
Will you want a paw print, nose print, shadow box or fur clipping?
Would you want to have a ritual or letting go ceremony for both adults and/or children?
Will there be any favorite toys or blankets you would want cremated with your pet?
Would you want a custom urn, memorial stone or other remembrance keepsakes such as jewelry?
If a private cremation is chosen, will you want to keep the ashes, scatter them, or bury them?
Consider who you may want present during the time your pet is passing or during the family attended ceremony. We can offer guidance and support during this sensitive time. We have found that planning ahead even in grief, people can come to feel more connected to each other, and offer your pet the most complete and compassionate transition possible.
Please reach out and connect with us for more details as you find your way through this transformative experience.