What is new in 2022?
Pet Memorial Service
Saying goodbye is the hardest part of having an animal in your life. At Gillions, we adore our pets and we, too, have experienced their loss.
Back in 2019, we hosted our very first memorial service. This was such a special time for us all and in 2022, now that Covid restrictions have eased, we are proud to be hosting the pet memorial again.
We know your pet is not just an “animal” – it is a family member. When that beloved pet dies, the loss felt is truly significant. Sometimes people try to help by saying “it’s just an animal” or “you can get another one” but when you are feeling the loss intensely this can add to your sadness. Each family member may feel the loss differently and need to grieve in their own way.
The relationship with a pet is often the most meaningful relationship an older person has after they have lost their life partner. When that pet then dies, this may trigger old grief losses and we have all witnessed how painful this is for the families we care for.
In our experience it helps to talk about your loss and to share precious memories. We hope we can help by providing this opportunity for pet lovers to come together for a special ceremony to remember our animal friends. We will have a local celebrant, live music, a photoshow and a chance for all to participate.
All photos received by Friday 30th September will be entered in a prize draw – the winner will have the photo crafted into a detailed pencil impression by Dunedin artist, Tania Willis.
RSVP by Friday 30th September by registering on the Gillions Facebook page or phoning 03 455 2128 during business hours. Photos can be uploaded via our website, Facebook page, emailed to pets@gillions.co.nz or we can scan them for you at our office (please phone first to schedule a time).
Please help us support Dunedin Cat Rescue and Dog Rescue Dunedin Charitable Trust by your gold coin donation at the service.
A special Thank You to Pet Tributes, Animates, Animal Attraction, Otago Pet Foods, Nichol’s Pet Centre, Andy Cunningham, and Rodney the Cat, for their generous donations which will all go to help
Dunedin Cat Rescue and Dog Rescue Dunedin Charitable Trust
Our pet ranges
We are currently expanding our range of urns, jewellery, and keepsakes. These are on display in our foyer. Tributes Funeral Supplies and Pet Tributes provides locally made urns, candle holders and crosses and are supporting us with our Pet Memorial service. Also brand new in 2022 is the Reterniti Stone which is lovingly crafted from the ashes of your beloved pet. These are hand made in Christchurch and we are proud to be offering this lovely service.