Choosing one or two readings for your pet’s memorial service can add meaning and a personal touch to your ceremony.

Whether it’s a favorite poem, a comforting quote, or a passage that reflects your bond, readings can help express emotion straight from the heart. You may also consider inviting others to choose or read something meaningful. Like all parts of your memorial, what matters most is that it feels right to you.

Readings hold importance as they can provide comfort during a time when words are a struggle. They help articulate emotions that might feel overwhelming, and are a way to honor your pet’s life in a heartfelt way. A reading can also serve as a reminder of the joy and love they brought into your life, maybe even offering a small piece of solace in your grief.

But what if you don’t find a reading you love? It’s okay, there’s no rule saying a reading has to be part of your memorial if it doesn’t resonate with you. Sometimes, the most personal tribute is simply a moment of silence or a few words spoken from the heart, without the need for anything pre-written.

For many, there can be healing in finding the right reading or passage or poem. It’s part of the planning and an outward display of love. While there are no words that could adequately express the depths of your love or grief, luckily we have the internet to help with options. Below are a few that I love.

“They Will Not Go Quietly”
~ Author Unverified, often attributed to Linda Barnes
They will not go quietly,
the pets who’ve shared our lives.
In subtle ways they let us know
their spirit still survives.
Old habits still can make us think
we hear them at the door.
Or step back when we drop
a tasty morsel on the floor.
Though time may bring new friends
and a new food dish to fill,
that one place in our hearts
belongs to them… and always will.

The Last Battle ~ Author Unknown
If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then you must do what must be done,
For this, the last battle, can’t be won.
You will be sad, I understand,
But don’t let grief then stay your hand,
For this day, more than all the rest,
Your love and friendship stand the test.
We’ve had so many happy years—
What is to come can hold no fears.
You’d not want me to suffer so;
When the time comes, please let me go.

Four Feet — Rudyard Kipling
I have done mostly what most men do,
And pushed it out of my mind;
But I can’t forget, if I wanted to,
Four-Feet trotting behind.
Day after day, the whole day through—
Wherever my road inclined—
Four-Feet said, “I am coming with you!”
And trotted along behind.

My Forever Pet — Susanne Taylor
There’s something missing in my home,
I feel it day and night,
I know it will take time and strength
before things feel quite right.
But just for now, I need to mourn,
My heart — it needs to mend.
Though some may say, “It’s just a pet,”
I know I’ve lost a friend.
You’ve brought such laughter to my home,
and richness to my days.
A constant friend through joy or loss
with gentle, loving ways.
Companion, friend, and confidante,
A friend I won’t forget.
You’ll live forever in my heart,
My sweet, forever pet.