Are you looking for the perfect pet loss memorial gift for you friend who recently said good-bye to their best fur friend? Did one of your co-workers unexpectedly lose a pet to a sudden illness? Maybe you just don’t know what to say to your grieving family member, and you would like to give them a meaningful gift to show that you care.
It’s been 3 months since I have said goodbye to my soul dog, Kota. I received some beautiful gifts from friends and family that helped ease the pain and trigger some wonderful memories. I put together a gift guide that includes meaningful gifts that I received after Kota passed, and I thought I would share it with all of you. To read more about our journey to our final days and see a picture of Kota’s shrine, click here: Rainbow Bridge
Healing Hearts Candle
When my dog I photographed crosses over the rainbow bridge, the Healing Hearts Candle, by Pet Perennials, is my “go- to” gift for grieving parents. I also received this as a gift after Kota’s loss and I’m grateful.
The soy candle is beautifully scented lavender and chamomile. When you burn the candle, a heart-shaped gemstone will appear at the bottom. A card is included with a list of gemstones you could receive, along with the meanings. These stones are a perfect keepsake to tuck away in your pocket, reminding you of your cherished pet throughout the day.
I received the “Jade” stone and the meaning hit home: “You provided me with the best life on earth. Trust that I am well cared for in spirit and will protect you forever.” I miss you, Kota, and you will be in my heart forever.
Pet perennials has a variety of gift options for pet loss, so you can’t go wrong with anything that you choose from their site. They have glass ornaments, sun catchers, frames, keychains and even memorial garden signs.
A Living Tribute
Plant a tree in memory of a pet in a national forest. I received this gift from Anglan Schneider, owner of Big White Dog Photography in Spokane and founder of One Last Network, a space dedicated to connecting pet parents to resources and services they may need as their pets age and ultimately leave us. Yes,this gift brought tears to my eyes.
My dog Kota loved to hike the trails! We have so many beautiful hikes all over New England. I am thankful that Kota will have a tree planted in honor of to help restore the White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire from A Living Tribute. I framed this and it hangs right next to Kota’s memorial shrine. Whenever I look at it it reminds me of our outdoor adventures.
Etched Rock
An engraved rock with a dog’s name, heart, pawprint, or even quote is a heartwarming gift. I love the beautiful marble stone with a hint of warm hues within the gray, along with a heart and Kota’s name. I’m not exactly sure the vendor, but etsy has some beautiful options. I place this in my hands every day.
Desk Frame With Quote
I adore this frame and quote, a thoughtful gift from my mom and dad. I love the personalized touch with Kota’s name etched, the paw print, and the years she enhanced our lives! This pet memorial frame is from Personalization Mall and comes in a variety of colors.
Paw Print Foam Hand Wash
This makes me smile! And what a fun gift to receive! This thoughtful gift of My Kirei by Kao hand soap arrived from a flight attendant friend of mine from Chicago. In her note she said, “think of Kota every time you wash your hands.” I do. I Think I will be refiling this soap bottle forever! It’s just a perfect gift to trigger happy memories. (please don’t mind my dry skinned hand!)
Guardian Angel with Dog Figurine
I received this beautiful hand painted and sculpted figurine of an angel with dog from a wonderful dog photography client of mine. It came with a little condolence card that says, ” “In your life journey you’ll never feel lonely, because you have one of the most loyal and brave partners and friends.” The angel has detachable magnetic angel wings. This angel sits on the top shelf of Kota’s shrine. It is available on etsy.
Sympathy Card
Simple. Thoughtful. So meaningful. You can’t go wrong with a sympathy card. Show someone that you are thinking of them. Show them that you care. A few words or no words at all. I received some beautiful cards after Kota’s passing, the words triggering memories of my life with Kota. I cherish each and every one of them. I am grateful for all of the support.
Resources
If you haven’t heard of One Last Network, this is a great gift of sharing to help a friend or family member. Our recent episode that launched last weekend was the Art of End-of-Life Pet Photography. We tackle all subjects from anticipatory grief to post pet loss. Give it a listen and let us know what you think.
Around the Circle
This post is part of a blog circle featuring pet photographers around the world sharing “gift” ideas. You will see some amazing holiday gifts. I just thought I’d share a different take on “gifts”. Pet loss happens all year long and it’s nice to have some ideas to support others while they are dealing with the pain and sorrow.
Next up Canberra Dog Photographer, Ina Jalil of Ina J Photography shares her 2022 Christmas Gift Guide covering gifts for dog lovers you can get locally in Canberra to support local businesses. Hope you love browsing all the gift guides – enjoy!
Great Listing of Pet Gifts Memorial Items and where they can be purchased!!
I have now bookmarked this blog. When my Loving Memoriessession clients lose their beloved pet, Ioften send a gift. Every one of these are thoughtful and beautiful.
These are all beautiful. Thanks for sharing this list.
This an excellent guide to help friends and family of the grieving acknowledge their loss and celebrate the life lived in some way.