If you've recently buried a pet like I have, or even if you buried a faithful companion a long time ago and would like to create a memorial (it's never too late, obviously) the following article is intended to help you come up with some ideas. Nowadays, there are numerous means by which to memorialize your pet, from pet caskets, to pet memorial photo frames, etc. etc. Back when I was a kid, these things were virtually unheard of. Today, our pets seem to be better regarded, more humanized somehow, and I think that's a wonderful thing, as I've always gotten on with animals much better than I get on with humans! If you'd like to memorialize your beloved pet, I hope that one of these ideas will inspire you.

This Paw Print memorial measures 13"L x 11"W x 2"H and weighs about 2.5 lbs. This is meant for memorializing dogs, and the text reads "Dogs leave paw prints on our hearts." Made of cast stone, it will be able to withstand all outdoor climates and conditions. Of course, if you'd simply like to use it as an indoor memorial, that's possible too.

I realize this is a hand-print stepping stone kit for children, but if I'd had this available, it's probably what I'd have personally chosen for my cat. These stones are made for outdoors, so obviously they will hold up -- but you really can't get more personal than an actual paw print from your pet. Making this a family activity may even help children with their grieving process.

Similar to the previous item, this kit is a bit more colorful and may be more interesting for children who would like to make something more creative for their pet. Not that this kit couldn't be used by adults. Again, it's made for outdoor usage, so it will withstand the elements.

I quite like this rustic looking pet memorial marker. It measures 8 x10 inches and is personalized with your pet's name, a personal saying, and date. The etching is done by laser and will withstand outdoor weather conditions. If you've got something specific you'd like to have engraved, they will make every effort to accommodate you.

I absolutely love these. There's both a cat and a dog version. If you look closely, you can see that each animal has wings and a halo, in addition to have their name and vital dates inscribed. These would look lovely in any garden, and they make a touching tribute.

This Faithful Cat Memorial stone measures 15.5 x11.5 inches and is meant for outdoor use as a headstone or memorial. A simple but lovely memorial slate for your cat.

The Faithful Friend Memorial is the same as the previous item, but is meant for dogs. It measures 15.5 x 11.5 inches and is a lovely way to commemorate a memorial site for your dog.