Those who have been pet parents for a while have likely lost a pet at some point. The sad truth is we outlive our pets, and since pets play such a vital role in our lives and are part of our families, that loss can hit hard. Remembering them and all the good times we had with them can help, though.
That’s why National Pet Memorial Day was created. This day of remembrance is held on the second Sunday of September and recognizes the importance of animals in our lives. But how do you observe National Pet Memorial Day?
History & Importance of National Pet Memorial Day
Before we discuss ways to observe National Pet Memorial Day, we should examine its history and importance.
National Pet Memorial Day was established in 1972 by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories (IAOPCC).1 However, the day didn’t start to gain much recognition until 1975 when more organizations and pet owners took part in observing National Pet Memorial Day, as well as promoting it. In the 1980s, this day began to spread to other countries, making it an International Day of Observance. Finally, in 2015, National Pet Memorial Day took hold as celebrities and news outlets began to talk about the day, making its popularity rise even more.
But why is National Pet Memorial Day such an important day? There are several reasons for its importance.
A considerable aspect of National Pet Memorial Day is that it brings awareness about how pet loss affects people. Many people don’t realize what a traumatic experience losing a pet is, so having this day spreads awareness of the effects of pet loss and how to support loved ones through the loss of a pet. This day also honors our pets who have passed away. If you’ve lost a pet, you probably think about them often, but this day gives you a chance to truly remember them and their impact on your life by allowing you the time to reflect. Doing this can help grieving pet parents move forward while still appreciating and honoring their lost pet.
Finally, National Pet Memorial Day encourages us to cherish the pets we have while they’re still around. It reminds us they won’t be here forever, so we should take the time to love them and enjoy life with them.
Ways to Observe National Pet Memorial Day
There are so many ways you can observe National Pet Memorial Day.
- Lighting a candle for your pet who passed away.
- Visiting their burial site (if they have one).
- Write a letter to your pet who passed and share your favorite memories of them in it.
- Put together a photo album with all your favorite photos of your pet who has passed away.
- Design or get a memorial tattoo.
- Plant a tree, flower, or garden as a memorial to your pet. You can do this in your backyard or get permission to do so in a local park.
- Donate time to a local shelter to help them with training animals. Because animals who are trained have a better chance of being adopted, you’ll be saving lives, which is a fantastic memorial to your pet.
- Donate supplies to a rescue organization or shelter in your pet’s name.
- Have a memorial service for your pet.
- If you know someone who has recently had a pet pass away, reach out to them.
- Love your current pets that much extra on this day.
Final Thoughts
National Pet Memorial Day is observed on the second Sunday of September and allows you to remember pets who have passed away. This day of remembrance has been around for 50 years and is observed by many, both in the United States and internationally. If you want to observe National Pet Memorial Day this upcoming September, you can do so in several ways.
But simply remembering your beloved pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge and loving your current pets just a little more on this day is a wonderful way to observe it.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
