Blessing for
Deceased Pet

We remember the
Laughter and joy
Which this pet has given us.
Help us to share kindness
And care with all living things.

"When a pet dies, that special, warm place in our hearts suddenly becomes empty...

and, as in all painful events, it will take time to get over the loss...

But there is something to hang on to.  We realize, as time passes, that animals have a way of teaching us about loving, about loyalty, joy, and friendship...

And whatever we've shared in their presence can never really be lost."

"Near this spot lie the remains of one who possessed beauty without vanity, strength without insolence, and courage without ferocity, and all the virtues of man without his vices.  This praise which would be unmeaning flattery if inscribed over human ashes, is but a just tribute to the memory of a dog."

*Posted in memory of Tinkerbell, Brandy, Twinkle, Barney and Ginger 

by: Beth Norman Harris

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to the bitter elements.  And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god, and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it sry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.  Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protest you with my life should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you.

Rather, hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest - and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands."

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Place the interred pet site in the center of the circle you cast, if not possible maybe a picture or favorite toy. In this case, it may be wise to forego flaming objects/shoes/etc. Do a quarter call to each of the elements:

Hail to the seed moon, round in fullness and fertility. Lend your power here to my actions as I leave my pet to you!

East:
O winds that carry wild calls
From eastern watchtowers' echoing halls
Come stand at circle here and bless
and welcome now my friend and pet
As_____ Comes to you in Summerland

South:
O fires that stir the seasons changes
From southern watchtowers flickering ranges
Come stand at circle here and bless
and welcome now my friend and pet
As_____ Comes to you in Summerland

West:
O rivers that mix the earth and sky
From western watchtowers low and high
Come stand at circle here and bless
and welcome now my friend and pet
As_____ Comes to you in Summerland

North:
O soil that roots and soil that wanders
From nothern watchtowers here do saunter
Come stand at circle here and bless
and welcome now my friend and pet
As_____ Comes to you in Summerland

Invocation:
Herne, father of the wild things
I call to you
Come look upon your child
That I am leaving to your care
I invoke you, and ask your blessing
that my pet may be comfortable in it’s new home
That s/he may live in a loving and safe environment
So mote it be!

(What? Can’t carry the pet?Stand near the site)

Pick up the pet if possible,(or representation) and walk to the East:
Powers of the Wind, I present ______ to you!
Move my friend kindly, and keep her/him in your care!

to the South:
Powers of Fire, I present _____ to you!
Ease my friend through the transformations of life,
and keep her/him in your care!

to the West:
Powers of Water, I present __ to you!
Surround my friend with love
and keep her/him in your care!

to the North:
Powers of Earth, I present ______ to you!
See that my friend may never want
and keep her/him in your care!

I present _____ to Herne!
Blessed Father, watch over my friend
and help him/her acclimate Summerland!
So mote it be!

Do the thanks yous and unbind the circle.

This lovely ritual has been given to us by guscro@yahoo.com I want to thank him for allowing me to add this wonderful ritual for unfortunately all of us who reside with pets will one day need one.

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