National Pet Memorial Day

Over the last 12 months, I have lost my beloved dog of 16.5 years, a cruelty-case foster cat who developed untreatable cancer, and a feral cat from one of my community cat colonies. Each of these losses were devastating in their own way. Their passings felt very unfair to me – it seemed like each of them still had so much to experience. And, sometimes, just saying goodbye to a best friend doesn't feel like it's enough. How does one celebrate such a beautiful and joyous life that is no longer here? After witnessing the profound grief that pet owners often experience at the passing of a pet, in 1972 the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories designated the second Sunday in September as National Pet Memorial Day - a day full of moments to remember pets and special animals who have passed. If you haven't celebrated the life of an animal who was incredibly special to you, here are some of the ways you can do so on National Pet Memorial Day this year: - Get a memorial tattoo with your pet's ashes - Visit Green Pet Funeral Home & Crematory on Rt 65 and purchase a remembrance jewelry piece - Donate to a local shelter or fire/police station in your pet's name - Create a photo album - Revisit your pet's favorite things or places - Plant a flower garden or tree - Foster a homeless animal - Volunteer to clean up a local park for other pet lovers - Hold a memorial luncheon And I know what you are thinking…"I can get a tattoo with my pet's ashes?" Yes, you absolutely can. These are referred to in the tattoo industry as ritual or commemorative tattoos. Not every artist does these, so it is important to find a tattoo artist that you trust who is experienced and familiar with doing these types of tattoos. Lionheart Tattoo in New Eagle, PA offers commemorative ash tattoos. Mindy, artist and designer at Lionheart explains, "Cremation ash tattoos are for pet owners who prefer something unique and meaningful to honor a pet. It's a way that you can carry your cherished pet with you forever." Commemorative ash tattoos aren't for everyone though, if you have extremely sensitive skin, it's important to discuss concerns with your tattoo artist or a health professional. So, if you have ever lost a pet, our thoughts are with you on National Pet Memorial Day. Please send any photos of your beloved pets that have passed, or any photos you may have of your remembrance gardens or other remembrance activities, to the.citizen@verizon.net Sharing keeps their memories alive.