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Have you ever wondered why we bury our departed loved ones in cemeteries? The answer lies in providing survivors with a place to grieve and find closure. But what about our beloved pets?
Barcelona, a city home to 180,000 dogs, recently made headlines by announcing the establishment of Spain’s first public pet cemetery. With an estimated 7,000 burials and cremations per year, the move comes in response to public demand for such a service.
The history of pet cemeteries dates back to the late 19th century in Europe and the Americas. The capital’s first public pet cemetery was created at London’s Hyde Park in 1881, followed by Hartsdale pet cemetery in New York in 1896 and Paris’ Cimetière des Chiens in 1899.
My research into pet burial practices was sparked by an archaeological discovery in Toronto, where a large dog was found buried behind a family home that dates back to the mid-19th century. This prompted me to explore how people’s relationships with their pets influence their actions following their pets’ passing.
Just like human burials, pet burials reflect intimate cultural practices that evolve over time, indicating changing attitudes towards animals in society. From the Victorian era to today, gravestones and epitaphs offer insights into the bond between humans and animals throughout history.
In recent years, jurisdictions like New York have allowed for the co-burial of cremated animals and people, underscoring the evolving funerary and commemoration practices for both humans and animals.
Despite the emotional significance of the bond between humans and animals, the stigma around grieving for pets still exists. Organizations like the RSPCA and grief counseling centers offer support to those mourning the loss of a pet, emphasizing the validity of such emotions.
The opening of Barcelona’s new pet cemetery provides a formal space for people to grieve, but it may not be financially accessible to everyone. Alternative options like keeping cremated remains at home, scattering ashes, or utilizing digital platforms for commemoration offer additional avenues for honoring the memory of beloved pets.
Whether through traditional burials, digital memorials, or personal rituals, there are many ways to express grief and commemorate the cherished relationships we have with our furry friends.