part 2 of the "How to Have a Pet Funeral" series
written by a person, not a computer
4 minute read
Having a pet funeral, or celebration of life isn't easy, but it is important for the surviving members of a family to process their grief, celebrate a loved ones' life, and begin to move forward with their own life. In part 1 we learned about setting the intentions for an event like this, and how to physically set up the space. In this section, we will be specific about what to say when speaking at a pet eulogy.
Stories
Central to the human existence, are stories, so that's were we begin. Tell a story or two about your pet. The best ones are respectful but funny. This is one of the few times you can laugh and smile, while crying. Everyone has their own level of comfort with public speaking, even in this intimate setting. Some may wish to speak extemporaneously, some may wish to have a few notes, and yet others may be most comfortable reading word for word what they wrote. Each person can tell several stories in a row, or take turns. You will know your family best. Here is a list of story ideas that are almost universal...
-the story of how the pet came to your family
-how you bonded with your pet
-how they got their name
-the time they made us laugh the hardest
-the time they surprised us
-the time they ate something gross
-the time they needed the vet in the night
-the time they did us a great favor
-the time they rolled in the mud
-about their favorite toy
-how they liked to play
-the friends they made
-their unusual sleeping habits
-I'm sure you have more ideas specific to your pet...
Poems or Songs
Poems or songs are part of nearly all celebrations for humans, and remain a good option here.
We may find that the words of a skilled author, read or sung, do better job of conveying the depth and complexity of our emotions than what what we could write ourselves. If you can find this blog, you can find ample resources online for this too.
Participants may read a poem or sing a song; solo or as a group. If your ceremony is outside, check the volume. Too soft and nobody can hear, too loud and you may attract unwanted attention if you are in a public place.
Words of Gratitude
Practice gratitude for your loved ones' life and the gifts they brought to you. This can take many forms. Here are some ideas that can be customized. Let's assume the pet's name is Rufus.
Rufus, thank you for your… or Rufus, I appreciate your… along with how it made you feel, or what part of your love it connected you with.
Rufus, I appreciate your many attempts to take whatever was at the edge of the countertop. No matter what I was preparing, from meat or kale, you reminded me that I am a fabulous cook, worthy of stealing from.
More ideas for elements to appreciate about a pet include...
wagging tail bold voice
nuzzles under the blanket soft fur
floppy ears clicking toenails
curling up next to me keen nose
counter surfing excited jumping
digging chewing
chasing frolicking
rolling over bath time antics
meowing face licking
pointy ears rodent acquisition
pawing at the door bringing a toy
sitting on my lap adoration of cheese
The next in this series will be about spirit release during a pet funeral. I am sorry for your loss.
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