planning

When we as pet owners and fur parents receive the news that a beloved animal is nearing the end of their life, it may be expected. Sometimes the news comes as a blow which knocks the wind out of us. However we take the news we can decide how to proceed and consider ways to honor our animals memory. One such way is planning a farewell party or living wake. Just like such gatherings we hold for humans, it can be a way to celebrate the life of someone dear and it can offer closure. If you want to hold such a gathering you’ll find many service options, especially in the pet friendly city of Seattle. Here is an example plan which I used for my dog, Chompers, farewell party.

Guests:

Consider who you might invite to the gathering. Family members, Partners, Friends, Chosen Family, your Dog Walker, Cat Sitter, Groomer. Don’t forget your animal’s other (animal) friends. Think about who your pet has touched and made an impression on. 

Tone:

Decide what you want the tone of the gathering to be; celebratory or somber. Make sure you communicate the intended tone to all guests. Letting attendees know ahead of time can help but expect some guests (or yourself) to struggle with tears. 

Special Treat:

There are specialty bakeries that can create a gorgeous farewell cake for your companion. When an animal is near to death we can even oblige their interests in things like chocolate. A colleague of mine has written an article to this point which you may find interesting. In addition to a special animal treat, I provided something for the human guests as well.

Location:

If you have an adventurous animal, one who used to love to go places with you, you might think of hosting your gathering at a location the animal is familiar with such as a park. However, as our dear friends come closer to the end of their life their mobility and their sense of adventure are likely lower. Hosting the gathering in your home will allow your animal a sense of safety and familiarity. 

Photos:

Don’t forget to have someone (or multiple people) agree to take photos. Having photos to remind you of your animal’s special day can help you cope after their passing. If your budget allows hiring a professional pet photographer could make this part easier. 

Gifts for Guests:

If you have the bandwidth, think about giving your guests a trinket to remember the gathering and more importantly your animal. If your special animal is a dog or cat, you could consider giving paw prints using an ink pad and some watercolor or multi-medium art paper. This is a difficult time and you may not have the bandwidth for such a thing, that is ok. This is all optional and no one will judge you for anything you can’t do. I personally didn’t have the bandwidth for guest gifts. 

Take Time:

Remember to take the time to step back and appreciate this gathering. Look at the other souls your animal has touched. You are not alone, you will be able to ask any of these people for support in the coming days, weeks, months, years.  

If you are interested in planning a living wake or farewell party for your animal, please don’t hesitate to contact me for assistance. You don’t have to do it all alone.