Tips for Writing a Pet Eulogy
When a loved one passes, it is customary for someone to give a eulogy during the memorial ceremony. There’s something about verbally remembering the life of our loved one that helps us bring a sense of closure. For those of us who love our pets, losing a pet can be just as painful as losing a family member; for that reason, it is not so far-fetched that a pet eulogy can bring a sense of comfort.
A pet eulogy can be a simple written reflection, or it can be spoken as part of a memorial ceremony. If you are preparing a eulogy for your pet, or perhaps doing the honors on behalf of a friend who has lost a pet, here are some tips to help you through the process.
FOCUS ON POSITIVE MEMORIES
The focus of a memorial is not so much to remember death, but to remember life; try to bring in memories of the happy times, funny events that happened with the pet, fond and favorite memories. Anything amusing is fair game if it is tastefully shared. There’s truth in the statement that laughter is good medicine, and stories that make you and others smile or laugh can bring much-needed comfort.
REFLECT ON THE PET’S LIFE
Beyond fun stories and fond memories, talk about the pet’s character and qualities in your pet eulogy. What kind of dog/cat was he/she? Talk about things like loyalty, friendliness, protectiveness, and any other honorable traits.
BE HONEST WITH EMOTIONS
It’s okay to admit that it’s difficult to deal with the loss, and that you are saddened by the passing of a friend. It may bring a few tears, but those tears are cleansing.
EXPRESS THANKS
A pet is a gift, and the time we have with a pet is a gift. It is honorable to include some form of thanks, whether to the pet itself, or to God for the life of the pet—whatever your belief system allows, just give an acknowledgment of thanks for the gift.
There’s no specific right or wrong way to prepare a pet eulogy; whatever lends meaning and brings comfort is “right.” Use these tips as guidelines, but most of all, follow your heart.
