At some point, you might feel compelled to do something about your pet’s belongings after they’ve passed. Maybe it makes you smile to be reminded of your time together, or perhaps it’s still painful to relive those memories. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve after losing a pet, and how you handle their material belongings depends on your preferences and beliefs. The following suggestions can help you decide how to proceed according to your emotional needs. 

What Should You Do With Your Pet’s Belongings After They’ve Passed Away?

1. Donate to an Animal Shelter

If you have items that appear on the Hawaiian Humane Society wishlist, donate them to be used at a shelter. Canned and dry food, treats, litter pans, Kong toys, cat toys, and leashes are usually high in demand and will help animals in need. Cat People of Oahu and Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary are also local nonprofits that accept donations from families who have lost a pet. 

2. Create a Sentimental Tribute

If you want to keep your pet’s memory close to heart, honor them with an artistic tribute. Display their collar or another token with a photograph or portrait in a shadowbox, picture frame, or scrapbook. Many people also find solace in a shrine. For example, you can fasten their dog tag in a garden where your pet liked to sunbathe. 

3. Keep the Items for a Future Companion

If you plan to get another pet, it might be helpful to keep some of the same belongings in anticipation of their arrival. It can be comforting to have familiar items nearby as you adjust to life with a new companion. It’s like passing belongings down to a family member—it creates a sense of continuity and connection.

 

If you want to create a thoughtful memorial after you’ve lost a pet, an urn can be a beautiful way to commemorate your cherished memories together. The compassionate specialists at Oahu Pet Crematory can incorporate items such as collar tags, photographs, fabric scraps, and other belongings into the urn’s design. Visit their website to find out more about their services, or ask your veterinarian to call (808) 371-7531 to arrange for cremation.