Aftercare and Memorials for Pets
Hey there!
In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy
This episode explores the aftercare options available for pets after they cross the Rainbow Bridge. Amy talks with Gia Kondakor, director of Pet Loss Services at McAllister Smith Funeral Home. They discuss the emotional challenges people face when their pets die and the importance of making informed decisions about pet aftercare. The episode covers topics such as cremation options (individual, partition, communal), memorial services, and unique ways to memorialize pets. Gia emphasizes the need for open conversations about pet loss and encourages pet parents to feel comfortable making decisions that honor their pets' memories.
Takeaways:
- Aftercare options for pets include cremation and burial.
- Cremation options include individual, partition, and communal cremation.
- Memorial services can provide closure and support for grieving pet parents.
- There are unique ways to memorialize pets, such as jewelry and art made from cremains.
- Open conversations about pet loss and aftercare are important for making informed decisions.
To get in touch with Gia or explore the pet aftercare options at McAlister-Smith, go to:
McAlister-Smith Pet Loss Services
Starting Sunday, April 27, 2025, we’re switching things up—new episodes will now drop every Sunday instead of Tuesday!
Why the change? Because Sundays just feel better. Quieter mornings, fewer midweek distractions, and a better chance to catch up with your favorite pet podcast (aka us 😎).
Set your alarms (or don’t—we’ll be waiting patiently like a well-trained Golden Retriever 🐾) every Sunday morning starting at 8AM EST / 7AM CST.
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Thanks for listening to Muddy Paws and Hairballs, your go-to resource for all things pet care. From dog training, behavior, and socialization to cat enrichment, pet adoption, and tackling behavior problems, we provide expert advice and real talk to help you create a happy, healthy life with your pets. Whether you're dealing with dog anxiety, looking for puppy training tips, or exploring enrichment ideas for your cat, we've got you covered. Be sure to check out all our episodes!
