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A family remembrance for a pet, for Buddhist families

These are the funerals for Buddhist families at Bridgeside, with every step in order and the words they use. The host can change or leave out any of them.

A family remembrance at a small altar

A home gathering with incense and your pet's name, based on what some Japanese American temples do at their pet memorial services. It isn't a temple service. Your minister or teacher is welcome to lead. About 15 minutes.

The order of steps

  1. Coming togetherYou can start with a small bell, if your family uses one.

    We're together to remember [your pet's name].

    Source: Written for Bridgeside

  2. Saying their nameSay your pet's name, and when they passed if you'd like. Others can add the names of pets they remember.
  3. Chanting (optional)If someone here chants, they can use what their own temple or teacher uses. We don't provide any chant text. If nobody does, skip this.
  4. Offering incense (optional)People come forward one at a time. Customs vary by lineage and temple, so follow your own.
  5. What we rememberWhat your pet taught you, and the ordinary days you shared.
  6. Sitting quietly (optional)About a minute.
  7. ClosingRead this or close in your own words.

    Thank you for sitting with us.

    Source: Written for Bridgeside

Quiet sitting and kind wishes

An informal time of quiet sitting, simple wishes and stories. It isn't a rite of any school. Your teacher can suggest what fits your practice. About 12 minutes.

The order of steps

  1. Coming togetherRead this or use your own words.

    We're here to sit together and remember [your pet's name].

    Source: Written for Bridgeside

  2. Sitting quietlyA few minutes. You can end it whenever it feels right.
  3. Kind wishesThese are our own simple words, not scripture. Use your own if you'd like.

    May everyone who misses [your pet's name] be at ease. May all beings be safe and well.

    Source: Written for Bridgeside

  4. What we remember (optional)Invite anyone who wants to share.
  5. A good deed in their memory (optional)Some Buddhists do a kind act and dedicate the merit to the one who has passed. Teachers and lineages differ on this, so use your own words or skip it.
  6. ClosingRead this or close in your own words.

    Thank you for sitting with us.

    Source: Written for Bridgeside

When you are ready

Choose this funeral when you hold one, and change any of the words to fit your pet.

Hold a free funeral with these words