You might be thinking, “Where do I even start?” How could you possibly sum up your beloved pet’s life and love in a short piece of prose. Needless to say, it’s not an easy task. However, there can be healing in writing; a stepping stone on the journey of grief.

To give you some ideas on drafting and polishing your eulogy, below you’ll find a five part outline to follow as well as some general guidelines to keep in mind throughout the process. 

The golden rule? It’s not about perfection, it’s about emotion. No matter how your words take shape, this will be a powerful tribute to a life well loved.

General Guidelines

• There is no hard rule about how long your writing should be. If you’re wanting a guideline, 500-750 words, or roughly 5-7 minutes read aloud, is fairly common, but remember it’s just a recommendation.
• Though your grief may be significant, especially when recounting their unique characteristics, keep the tribute specifically about your pet — their life, their spirit, their love. Avoid delving into your grief and the toughness of acclimating to a changed world. 
• Create a draft first, knowing you’ll revisit it to polish your words. The first draft can be just about getting your thoughts on paper. Giving yourself a break from writing can also allow you a chance to tend to your sorrow.
• Once your draft feels complete, read it aloud to see how it feels and flows.
• Before reading your eulogy at the service, do some deep breathing exercises or a meditation to center yourself and help feel as relaxed as possible. 

1. Introduction

Begin with a short introduction and heartfelt thanks to all for coming, caring, and celebrating the life and love of your pet. If the words are hard to read it’s ok to acknowledge that and briefly explain the process of writing has been emotional.

2. A Bit About Your Time Together

It’s been a beautiful love story. This is the perfect opportunity to express your love, devotion, and what they’ve meant to you and/or your family. Reflect on the time you shared together, how you met, the adventures, fun, and perhaps some of the milestones they were present for and an anchor through. 

3. Their Special Qualities

What made your pet special? Share their personality traits and the quirks that made them special. Whether they were silly or serious, athletic or a couch potato, extroverted or introverted. Sharing parts of your pet that others may not have known is a lovely way to share their spirit.

4. How They Made Your World Better

Simply speak from the heart about how your cherished pet made your life more complete and your days purposeful. Though most people understand that unconditional love is something that pets are known for, this is your chance to share your experience of love.

5. Conclusion

Revisit your thanks to everyone for their attention, care, and support. You might reflect on grief being a journey and coming together is one meaningful step along the way. Offer heartfelt gratitude for others remembering your cherished pet with you. You might choose to read a favorite inspirational or grief quote or poem as the conclusion. 

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Writing something very personal and emotional can be difficult. Don’t put a lot of pressure on yourself to “get it right”. Give yourself grace to write and then come back to it as you need to. The most important piece of a eulogy is that it be from your heart. A testimony of your special bond