After my cat died, I could not throw away her collar. Or her favorite toy. Or the last bag of treats. So I put them in a box. That box became a memory box—a place where her things live now.
What is a memory box?
A memory box is a container holding meaningful items connected to your pet. It gives you a place to keep things that feel too precious to throw away but too painful to display.
What to include
**Physical items:**
Collar and tagsFavorite toyLeash or harnessBrush with furBlanket or bed fabricFood bowl or water dish**Keepsakes:**
Paw print (ink or clay)Fur clippingWhisker (if you saved one)Baby teeth (if you kept them)**Documents:**
Adoption papersVet records or vaccine cardRegistration papersCremation certificate**Photos and memories:**
Favorite photos (printed)Cards received after their passingWritten memories or storiesTheir name tag from daycare/boardingChoosing a box
**Simple options:**
Wooden keepsake box (5-0)Decorative cardboard boxPlastic storage containerVintage or antique box**Memorial-specific options:**
Pet memory boxes with photo frames (5-5)Boxes with compartments for ashesCustom engraved wooden boxes (0-50)Creating your box
**Gather items gradually** - no need to do it all at once**Include a photo** on top or inside the lid**Write a note** - letter to your pet, favorite memory, or their story**Add their scent** - unwashed blanket or bed**Seal when ready** - or leave open to add to over timeWhere to keep it
Closet shelf (accessible but not daily visible)Under the bedWith other keepsakesDisplay shelf if you want it visibleIt is okay to
Open it when you miss themAdd things over timeRemove things that no longer feel neededHave more than one boxNever open it againYour next steps
Find a box that feels rightGather items gradually—no pressureInclude a photo and written memoryStore somewhere accessibleOpen when you need to feel close to them