Scattering Your Pet's Ashes
If you have chosen cremation for your pet, as opposed to pet burial in a pet coffin, you will need to decide what you would like to do with the ashes. Many families choose to scatter the ashes of their pets, it can feel freeing and often brings closure. Whether you’re on your pet’s favourite walk or simply in its favourite spot in your garden, it can be something that the whole family can get involved with and feel a part of.
Location
One of the biggest questions you may have is where to scatter your pet’s ashes? The main thing is to choose somewhere that is personal to you and your family. Where did your pet love to be? If your pet loved water and swimming, scattering their ashes in the sea, a lake or a river they loved may feel very fitting for your companion. Or you may choose to scatter ashes on their favourite walk. Walking round with your family may feel very moving and bring comfort knowing this was their favourite place. This could be anything from a seaside walk to woodlands, or meadows. On the other hand, it may feel right to scatter your companion’s ashes in your garden, perhaps picking its favourite spot. Crematoriums also often have memorial gardens which you can use to scatter your pet’s ashes after the cremation takes place.
Do make sure to follow regulations on scattering ashes for certain locations, with advice found here.
Scattering Items
After your pet has been cremated, you can choose what their ashes are returned in. If you know you will be scattering your pet’s ashes, it may be wise to choose a container specifically designed for scattering ashes or order this in addition. Ashes scattering tubes are a popular choice for this purpose. They are cylindrical tubes made from cardboard and have a wide range of picture designs, such as a beachscape or woodland image. Pet ashes scattering tubes are biodegradable and provide a lightweight container that can be carried to the site of your choosing with ease. The clever design means your pet’s ashes do not have to be touched with your hands if you do not wish, and are simple to scatter. With the tube being further away from your body, you can avoid ashes being blown into you. Scattering pouches are another alternative ashes container used for scattering. Many are made from dried strands of bamboo which are intricately woven to form a matting which is shaped into a pouch. Inside is a natural cotton bag with a drawstring which will hold your pet’s ashes. As it is made from natural materials, it is 100% biodegradable. Both designs are a great alternative to a heavy urn which may be cumbersome to carry to remote locations.
Making it Personal
There are many ways to carry out a touching ashes scattering memorial for your pet that is personal to your companion. Firstly, it may be a good idea to invite loved ones that truly understand you and your loss, this could be your family or friends. It is often comforting to share your grief with others and allow them to support you during a difficult moment such as scattering ashes.
If you choose to scatter ashes on your pet’s favourite walk, it can be very cathartic to share stories and memories of your pet whilst walking to your desired spot. This is a great way to involve the whole family and allows each person to open up. Talking about your pet can provide great solace.
Just before ashes are scattered, poems, readings or quotes could be read. This can be very meaningful and offers loved-ones a moment to think before the ashes are scattered. These could be written by yourselves, or a poem you have found which resonates with you. You can find plenty online, such as here. If you need inspiration for writing a reading or poem, it could include your favourite things about your pet, special memories or funny times with them. Taking something from each person may be a good way to include everyone.
After the ashes have been scattered, you may also choose to extend the memorial by eating a meal together afterwards, much like a wake with human funerals. This could draw the pet memorial to a nice close with your loved-ones.
There are a variety of ways to scatter your companion’s ashes after cremation, whether it’s a big memorial or small and private, the main thing to remember is to do what is right for you and your family. The advantage of scattering ashes is that there is no need to rush, you can take as long as you like, so make sure to take the time you need to think carefully.