Pet Memorials a Child Can Make

The loss of a family pet may weigh heavily on the heart of a child. A good way to help a child cope with feelings of sadness and grief is to have him become involved in the planning and making of the pet's memorial. Having a memorial will give the child a place to visit when he or she misses the pet or wants to "talk" to him. Low-cost pet memorials made by a child will allow her to express her love for the family pet.

Memorial Book

Like a scrap book, a memorial book highlights the pet's interaction with the family through memorabilia like an old collar, photographs and notes from the child. Here are a few pointers your child can use for making a memorial book for the family pet.

• Buy a scrapbook from a dollar store that has a pet motif on the cover.

• Write leading sentences on sheets of construction paper. Allow the child to fill in the gaps. Punch holes in the papers and put them in the book. Sentences to write are:

1. My favorite thing to do with my pet was...

2. My pet did a funny trick. He liked to...

3. If I could speak to my pet I would say...

4. My pet and I liked to...

• Offer markers and pet stickers to for the child to use in the book.

Encourage the child visit the memorial book whenever he misses his pet.

Pet Shoebox

An old shoebox can become a cool collection box for holding pet memorabilia. Decorate a shoebox with colorful paper or special drawings. Use photographs and cutouts of the pet to decorate the inside of the box and the lid. Have the child write the pet's name inside with a marker. Encourage him to put the dog's favorite toys inside the box.

Rock Markers

Find a large rock to serve as a headstone if the animal is to be buried in your yard. Allow the child to paint the rock marker to make a colorful pet memorial for the animal. On days when he is especially sad about the death of his pet, have him tuck a note under the rock. This is creative way to help the child express his feelings. Don't peek at the letter.

The loss of a pet is a sad moment in a child's life. After a life of loving service, help your young one remember the pet with a thoughtful pet memorial.