Once the body is gone, it is gone. Panic often sets in a week later when you realize you didn't save anything. Do these 5 things *now*, while you still can. They cost $0.
The "Physical Anchors" Checklist
1. A Lock of Fur (The Right Way)
Don't just cut anywhere. Cut from behind the ear or the chest where the fur is softest.Tie it with a piece of thread *before* you cut, so it stays in a neat bundle. Put it in a Ziploc bag for now.2. The Whisker
It sounds odd, but cats and dogs shed whiskers naturally. Check their bedding or favorite sleeping spot. Finding a loose whisker is like finding gold later.3. The Ink Paw Print
You don't need a clay kit. Use a regular ink pad (or washable marker). Press their paw on the pad, then press firmly onto a piece of cardstock or a blank page in a book.*Tip:* Do 5-10 copies. The first few will be messy. The 3rd or 4th is usually perfect.4. The Collar & Tag
Do not send the collar with them to cremation. You won't get it back. Take it off *now*. Putting it in a shadow box or around a plant pot is comforting.5. The Nose Print (Photo)
Take a super close-up, high-res photo of their nose leather. The texture is unique, like a fingerprint. Later, you can have jewelry artists cast this texture, but only if you have a good photo.Next Steps Checklist
Find scissors and an envelope.Take the collar off.Check the lighting and take close-up photos (paws, nose, eyelashes).Do this *before* the vet arrives for pickup.