National Pet Memorial Day falls on the second Sunday of September, but any day can be your pet's day. What matters is setting aside a little time to remember.
Gentle ways to mark the day
Light a candle
Set aside a quiet moment to light a candle in your pet's memory, alone or with family, and simply remember them.
Take a memorial walk
Retrace a favorite route or visit a spot your pet loved. A gentle walk can be a moving way to feel close to them.
Plant something
Plant a flower, a shrub, or a tree in their honor, turning the day into a living tribute that returns each year.
Share memories
Look through photos together, tell favorite stories, or write a note to your pet. Remembering out loud can be healing.
Give in their name
Donate to a shelter or rescue, or volunteer for a few hours, turning your love into help for animals still waiting.
Add a keepsake
Hang a memorial wind chime or place a new ornament, marking the day with something that will comfort you year to year.
Anniversaries and memorial days can bring grief back in waves, and that is completely normal. Planning something gentle for the day, rather than facing it unprepared, often helps. If the day feels especially heavy, our guide on how to cope with pet loss offers more support, and children can be included with our memorial ideas for kids.
There is no right way to remember. Whatever you do, doing it with love is enough.