Memorial Will Help Pet Owners Grieve

A special memorial will be held Sunday for people to remember their furry, four-legged friends that have died.

The event will begin at 2 p.m. at  off Washington Pike in South Fayette for anyone who has lost a pet. Deb Chebatoris, who owns , said the ceremony will allow people to “share deep feelings” about their pets.

“This event is for anyone who may have experienced the loss of a beloved pet, no matter when the loss occurred,” Chebatoris said.

This is the sixth year of the event and it coincides with other memorial services across the country with the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories. Chebatoris said 30 to 40 people usually attend to listen to speakers discuss people’s relationships with their pets.

“I always receive thank you notes, and many people return year after year even if they haven’t lost a pet,” Chebatoris said.

Dr. Brad Carmichael of  in McMurray, Bernadette Kazmarski, an animal artist and writer, and Elizabeth Babcock will speak during the memorial. A reading of “Words of Tribute” written by various pet owners will happen after the speakers. Chebatoris said those who attend can write a 50-word tribute to commemorate memories with their pets. 

“Limiting your remembrance to 50 words helps you to focus on the essential elements that made your pet special,” Chebatoris said.

A “Tribute Scroll” slideshow of photos and tributes sent to Chebatoris by families will be made after the memorial service. It will be posted at www.ccpc.ws for others to view.

Those interested in attending the event should contact Chebatoris at 412-220-7800 to let organizers know that they’re attending.