How to Help Kids Remember a Deceased Pet

When a child loses a pet, it is like losing a friend. When the child happens to be a young age, understanding and coping with losing their friend can be a rough road to go down. The first step in helping a child deal with their animal's death is by explaining to them why it has passed and to let them understand that it is a normal part of life. In this article, you will find different ways to help your child cope and remember their pet that has passed on.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Photos of the animal
• Picture frames
• Photo book
• Flowers

1. 
   Let the child put pictures inside a photo album to remember their pet

   One of the most significant ways to help a child remember their pet is by gathering as many photos of the animal that you or they have and put them all together inside of a photo album. This gives the child good memories of when the pet was with them and what a good time they had together. It also allows the child to look at the pet anytime they want to.

2. 
   Allow the child to choose a frame for one special photo

   Take a couple of special pictures and allow the child to put inside a special frame that can sit in their bedroom. That way, they always see their pet when they wake up and before they go to sleep. Let them pick the frame they want as well. This gives them a sense that they had part in it.

3. 
   Allow the child to place flowers where the animal was buried

   If you have decided to bury the animal outside in the yard, allow the child/children to set flowers where the animal has been buried until they feel the need not to do it any more.

4. 
   Have the animal cremated and placed inside of an urn for safe keeping

   If you have the extra money to spend, have the animal cremated at your local veterinarian. When you decide to do this, you will receive the ashes inside of an urn with the animal's name on the front of it. This will allow the child to have the animal around even though it has passed on. Prices for cremation vary depending on your veterinarian.

Tips & Warnings

• Be understanding to your child and give them as much time as it takes to deal with their loss.
• If they want another pet, get it for them as soon as possible.