Home Services Evermore Chapel Location/Contact Saying Goodbye Bereavement Return to Mari-May Kennels Return to Crown Thistle Collies Evermore Pet Chapel ~ Where beloved friends are never forgotten ~ National Pet Memorial Day What Is National Pet Memorial Day? The second Sunday in September is the official date of National Pet Memorial Day - this is a special day to remember our departed animal companions and friends. Noted psychologist and author of “Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Children and Adults”, Dr. Herbert Nieberg, writes: “Memorializing an animal can definitely help in the process of healing your loss.... One of the things many individuals find helpful is to remember their pet on an annual basis. It doesn’t matter whether you remember the pet on the anniversary of its death or on a national day set aside to do so...But the advantage of a day like National Pet Memorial Day is that you are likely to find solace among others who share the same feelings as you.” The International Association of Pet Cemeteries (IAPC) has recognized the importance of remembering our cherished pets and there-by designated the second Sunday in September as National Pet Memorial Day. At Evermore Pet Chapel we observe this day with special events. Words cannot describe the since of loss felt when an animal friend dies. It is often one of life's most heart-wrenching experiences. Large or small they are more than just a pet, she was your beloved companion and faithful friend - he was your loyal pal and joyful playmate. Because of this unique relationship, after the necessary arrangements have been made following your pet's death, you may want to establish a lasting tribute. The bond between humans and animals is both powerful and enduring. Gestures of remembrance provide comfort by celebrating a pet's life and commemorating their importance in our lives. Western cultures have few traditions for paying last respects to departed companion animals but there are many meaningful ways to memorialize your beloved pet. Suggestions for Honoring the Memory of Your Pet Hold a memorial service. Put a framed a photo of your pet in a special place of honor. Plant a tree to create a living memorial to your pet. Sponsor a tree, sculpture or bench with a dedication plaque to your pet. Put a personalized inscription on your pet's gravestone. Specialize an urn for your pet's ashes with a picture. Keep your pet's belongings; collar & leash, blanket, bowl or favorite toy. Collect pictures and keepsakes and create a scrapbook of your pet. Write about your pet - a story or a poem or even a a personal letter to your pet. Offer a memorial scholarship at a veterinary school. When the time is right, adopt another pet from a reputable breeder, local animal shelter or humane society. Where Can I Make a Donation in My Pet's Name? An especially meaningful way for some pet owners to honor their departed animal friends is to give a donation in their pet's name to a humane society, an animal protection organization or to Evermore's Beautification Fund, all of which appreciate financial support. Funds may be used in a variety of ways i.e., animal cruelty prevention, promoting animal care and/or spaying or neutering. Regardless of how, those organizations will greatly appreciate your donation and usually list donors and pets in the memorial section of their newsletters. At Evermore we maintain a number of contribution plaques. Your beloved pet will always have a special place in your heart. Keepsakes and memorials are a wonderful way to remember your departed companion.