If you’ve recently experienced the loss of a pet, then you know the grief can be devastating. People often suggest replacing the animal with another one, or simply moving on, but the grieving process takes time and you may even find the more you do in memory of your animal, the more you can begin dealing with its loss.

Consider having a ceremony. When humans die, their loved ones hold a precession and funeral, allowing them to commemorate their lives. Whether it’s in the backyard, a pet cemetery, or your favorite park, consider saying some words, reading a poem, or bringing along your animal’s favorite toy. It will honor your pet and make for a memorable celebration.

Creating a photo tribute can also help. Go through old photos of your pet and remember the time you spent together. This can be therapeutic; build a tribute in a large photo frame or in a booklet so those memories will last as long as possible.

Help others in memory in of your pet. This can be done by planting a tree, helping at a homeless shelter, or picking up trash at the side of the road. Your pet’s memory will live on not only in your heart, but in the hearts of those you help.

Finally, find the perfect memorial. Some people like purchasing a garden memorial for their pet, like an engraved stone or a plaque. Place it in one of your pet’s favorite parts of the yard so you can be reminded of him or her whenever you go by. It’s beautiful to see and memorializes your pet for years to come.