Pawprints

[mybaby]

Recently, I had to bring my 18 yo Siamese cat to be put down due to kidney failure. At that time, the vet asked if I wanted a clay pawprint to be cast as a memento . I said yes, and I am glad I have it...BUT everytime I look at it I remember it was taken at his death. I decided right then that I would cast my 10 YO Golden's (whom I lost later that same week) pawprint while he was alive and I would have happy memories of the casting. It was fun and easy (use modeling clay that dries when left out.) Sammy looked at me so quizically when I had him step down on this clump. It came out great. Now that my baby is gone ,I made a wonderful shadowbox with his collar ,tags, great big pawprint (he was a big boy) , a lock of his fur and my favorite picture. I love looking at it and enjoy the memory of his sweet funny face when we made it, rather than his death. If you are on this senior forum, you probably have a golden Oldie. Cast him now . You'll be so glad . I wish I had made two that day so I'd also have one for my Christmas tree. It was a sweet memory I hold dear to my heart , instead of a sad reminder , like my poor old kitty's .

[coopersmom04]

after we made the decision to have our dog Ranger put down, the vet technician did the clay paw print for us before they brought Ranger back into the room with us to be euthanized. I didn't expect it at all, when they gave it to me, I just about lost it! I really don't see it as "it was taken when he was near death". I'm just glad I have it and will treasure it always.

It did give me the idea though to do it with all my other pets. It's a great thing to do/have.

[Rusty-14]

mybaby, I didn't know you also lost your kitty. I am so sorry. This has truely been a hard time for you. I am glad to see what a strong lady you are. I hope I am as strong as you.

[diiorio]

That's actually somethign we don't do yet in our hospital, but I think we really will start doing it, or at least offer it to clients.

Many of our clietns do opt for individual cremations. Abbey Glen also offers the Chrystal Companion option with ashes. This allows part of the cremation to be placed in and chrystalized with Chrystals that you can display or wear. A part of your dog is always with you.

When I lsot Dandy I opted for Individual creamtion and selected a nice BRonze urn box with picture frame. I palced a lock of her hair on it. I have a special area for her with all her pics and favorite items. THis really helped me cope.

THe new puppy also makes me focus on things and remember Dandy's good memories.

[mybaby]

Diiorio, that would be so wonderful if your hosp. started doing pawprints. I know my son took our kittie's pawprint to his home when he saw I was crying over it and he treasures it . He sees nothing but good memories of his old Norton. He really felt like he has a treasure there .

[KilasMammy]

Ive recently started learning life casting and have thus far created casts of humans but I intend to cast Kilas paws in the near future. If it works, it will be a 3D cast of her paw rather than an impression but I think an impression is a wonderful thing to have.....I just love when she runs across sand and leaves her paw prints all the way along the beach :)
I think its sweet that this service is offered but as you said Mybaby it would be nice to be offered at all times rather than towards the end...puppies first visit for instance :)
Marie

[SoulCatcher]

I did a mold of my son hand and foot when he was six months old so I could remember his little feet and hands. I have it up on a shelf. I treasure them also. I may do my twins hands holding each other for them later to keep. I love the idea of the paw print, like a stepping stone.
Sorry for your loses. I know how hard it is to lose that precious soul. Lots of love your way. Shannon

[Andi]

I will have to do this for both of my Golden boys......sorry for both of your losses. :(

[KilasMammy]

When I manage to get around to doing it I will post a pic on the forum. Shannon....best make two for your twins in future years :)
To those who have lost your dogs I am also sorry for your lose, its a very hard time but in time you will be able to indulge in the wonderful memories you had with your beloved Goldens :)
Marie