Honoring Your Pet During the Holidays: Gentle Ways to Remember Them

The holidays can bring both warmth and heartache when you’ve lost a beloved pet. As family traditions return and the lights go up, you may feel their absence in every quiet moment. Yet this season also offers opportunities to celebrate their memory — to feel gratitude for the unconditional love they gave.

Here are a few ways to honor your pet during the holidays:

1. Light a candle in their memory.
Set aside a moment during your holiday meal or evening routine to light a candle in honor of your pet. Let it symbolize their continued presence in your heart.

2. Include them in your décor.
Hang a special ornament with their photo or collar tag, or create a small space on your mantel to display a framed picture. Our Halo Frames were created for this — a beautiful way to display their collar and photo together.

3. Donate or give in their name.
Many shelters and animal organizations accept donations in memory of pets. A small gift can bring hope to another animal in need.

4. Share stories with loved ones.
Invite family or friends to share a favorite memory of your pet. Talking about them keeps their spirit alive and reminds you that your grief is matched by the depth of your love.

Grief doesn’t take a holiday — but remembrance can bring comfort. Let yourself smile at the memories, and know that it’s okay to still miss them deeply. Love this big never truly ends.