Gentle ways to remember a pet who has passed away

A living memorial portrait

From one favourite photo, the Memorial mood creates a very gentle loop: slow breathing, soft blinks, a small turn of the head. Many people keep it as a lock screen, on a digital photo frame, or share it with family who loved the pet too.

Choosing the photo

• Pick a photo where they look like themselves, even if it's not the sharpest one.
• A clear face matters more than perfect quality. Old and scanned photos can work.
• If you have several, try the calmest one first.

Other ideas

• A photo book of everyday moments, not just the posed ones.
• A memory jar: family members write down a favourite memory each.
• Plant something in the garden or in a pot, as a living reminder.
• A coloring page from their photo for children to color. It can help kids talk about the loss. Try the free pet coloring page tool.
• Donate food, blankets or time to a local shelter in their name.

If you're struggling

Grief for a pet is real grief. Talking with friends who knew your pet, your vet, or a pet-loss support group can help.