-
Not only is it possible to enjoy a fun vacation with your dog, but it's also easier than ever to do so while being frugal.More >> Not only is it possible to enjoy a fun vacation with your dog, but it's also easier than ever to do so while being frugal.More >> These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners.More >> These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners.More >> Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone.More >> Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone.More >> ![iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram]( "iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram")
iStockphoto.com / Lee IngramSince dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly.More >> Since dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly.More >> Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home.More >> Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home.More >>
-
In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day.More >> In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day.More >> To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness.More >> To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness.More >> Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety.More >> Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety.More >> ![© Thinkstock.com]( "© Thinkstock.com")
© Thinkstock.comWho says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality.More >> Who says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality.More >> Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline.
More >> Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline.More >>
The death of an animal friend can be one of life's most difficult experiences. Although Western cultures have few traditions for paying last respects to departed companion animals, there are many meaningful ways to memorialize your beloved pet.
How can I honor the memory of my pet?
- Hold a memorial service at a pet cemetery, in your backyard, or in a place that was special to your animal companion.
- Add an inscription to your pet's gravestone.
- Find a special urn for your pet's ashes.
- Create a living memorial by planting a tree, bush, or flower bed in your yard.
- Contact a pet cemetery or community park to see if you can sponsor a bench or tree affixed with an acknowledgment plaque memorializing your pet.
- Frame a photo of your pet and put it in a special place.
- Keep your pet's favorite toy, collar, blanket, or bowl as a symbol of your pet.
- Create a scrapbook or collage with photos and other reminders of your pet.
- Volunteer at an animal shelter to help other pets.
- Participate in on-line memorials and candle-lighting ceremonies.
- Write a poem or story about your pet or write a letter to him.
- Offer a memorial scholarship at a veterinary school.
- When the time is right, adopt another pet from your local animal shelter or humane society.
What is National Pet Memorial Day?
Recognizing the importance of remembering our cherished pets, the International Association of Pet Cemeteries (IAPC) has designated the second Sunday in September as National Pet Memorial Day. Most pet cemeteries observe this day with special ceremonies, open houses, and other events. You can reach IAPC at 13 Cemetery Lane, Box 163, Ellenburg Depot, NY 12935; 800-952-5541.
Where can I make a donation in my pet's name?
An especially meaningful way for some pet owners to honor their departed animal friends is to give a donation in their pet's name to a humane society or other animal protection organization, most of which run special programs that need financial support. Depending on the organization, funds may be used to promote animal care, animal cruelty prevention, humane education, and spaying or neutering. Most local organizations will list the donor and pet in the memorial section of their newsletter. The HSUS offers the Kindred Spirits Memorial Program as a way to memorialize your pet with a lasting to tribute helping all animals.
Your beloved pet will always have a special place in your heart, no matter how you choose to remember your departed companion.
Copyright © 2001 The Humane Society of the United States All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WFXG, a Raycom Media Station.
