The number one thing owners wish they had done differently about mementos is that they had thought about it sooner. Not in the last hours, not after the appointment, but in the days or weeks before — when there was time, and when their pet was still present enough to cooperate.
This is not a morbid thing to do. It is an act of love and foresight. A paw print made while your pet is still alive is a different kind of keepsake than one made after. It carries the weight of a living thing. That matters.
The types of mementos worth considering
Ink paw prints are the most accessible option and can be done at home with a simple kit. The result is a print on paper or card that can be framed, kept in a journal, or scanned and reproduced. Most dogs and cats tolerate the process well with a calm approach and a treat or two. Kits are widely available and inexpensive.
Clay casting produces a three-dimensional impression of the paw — a physical object with real texture and depth. These take slightly more time and require the pet to hold still for a moment, but the result is significantly more substantial than an ink print. Many owners frame or display these. Kits are available for home use, or your vet can do a casting at the appointment.
Nose prints are less commonly done but equally unique — every animal's nose print is as individual as a human fingerprint. The technique is similar to ink printing: a small amount of non-toxic ink on the nose, pressed gently to paper. Some owners do both a paw and a nose print and display them together.
Fur clippings are simple and overlooked. A small amount of fur from a favorite spot — the scruff of the neck, behind the ear, the tail — kept in a small envelope or locket. It does not require any supplies and takes thirty seconds. Do it now, before you think you need to.
A paw print made while your pet is still alive carries the weight of a living thing. That matters.
When to do it
The ideal time is when your pet is still comfortable enough to cooperate — at least a few days before you expect the end, ideally earlier. A pet who is very ill, in pain, or heavily medicated will not have the patience for the process, and you will not have the emotional bandwidth to do it well.
If you are reading this and the time is close, do it today. Even an imperfect print made in a hurry is better than no print at all. Your vet can also take a paw print or fur clipping at the appointment itself — ask in advance so they come prepared.
What to ask your vet
Most vets are willing to take a paw print or clay casting at an end-of-life appointment if asked in advance. Some practices include it as part of their service. Others will charge a small additional fee. Ask when you book the appointment, not on the day — it gives them time to prepare and ensures it does not get forgotten in the emotion of the moment.
If your pet has already passed and you did not get a print, some cremation providers can take an impression before cremation. Ask immediately when you make contact — this needs to happen before the cremation process begins.
Memorial keepsakes beyond prints
Custom pet portraits — painted or illustrated from a photograph — are one of the most meaningful memorials many owners commission. The quality varies enormously by artist. Look for an artist whose existing work resonates with you personally, rather than choosing based on price alone. Commission while your pet is still alive so you can share reference photos and be involved in the process.
Memorial jewelry incorporating fur, ashes, or a paw print impression has become widely available. Several companies specialize in this work with genuine craftsmanship. Pieces range from simple pendants to elaborate custom work. If this is something you want, research providers before the end so you are not making decisions under acute grief.
A memory box — a simple keepsake box holding a print, a fur clipping, a collar tag, a favorite toy, and photographs — is a beautiful and low-effort way to keep meaningful objects together. Many owners make one in the weeks after a loss and find the process of assembling it helpful.
The pet memorial information sheet is a free printable that helps you record everything you want to remember about your pet — a different kind of keepsake, and one that can be made any time.