Saying Goodbye to a much loved family pet...properly.

Your grief is real

There’s no right way to grieve, and no timetable. Some of us cry and want to talk; others keep busy and get on with the practical things. Everyone in the family may feel it differently. Grief can even start before the goodbye, when a pet is old or unwell.

Grief rarely follows neat stages either. It comes in waves, moving between sadness and getting on with life, and a loss like this can stir up older ones too. Keeping their photos out and talking about them is healthy and normal. Whatever you’re feeling, I understand, and you won’t be rushed or judged.

A proper farewell – a chance to say thank you

A funeral gives us space to grieve, say thank you and find some closure. Our pets deserve that too. A short, personal service lets you share your stories, smile at the quirks that made them yours, and say goodbye properly, and have that same closure we have when a family member passes away.

Helping children – gentle support for little hearts

For many children, losing a pet is their first experience of death. A simple ceremony helps them understand what’s happened and gives them a way to say goodbye. It can also show them that it’s okay to be sad, and that remembering someone you love is a good thing.

You’re in good hands

I’m a fully qualified funeral celebrant and a member of the Association of Independent Celebrants. I’ll talk with you about your pet, then shape a short service around them – at home, in the garden, at a favourite walk, or wherever feels right. Just a few words, a few memories and a chance to say goodbye together.

Need someone to talk to?

The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support line is free and confidential, staffed by volunteers who’ve lost pets themselves. Call 0800 096 6606, 8.30am to 8.30pm.