Talking About Pets: For the love of a pet - Daytona Beach News-Journal

Many pet lovers have purchased HHS memorial bricks or pavers to pay tribute to their pet, their spouse, father, mother, etc. Recently, I had to edit over 1000 brick inscriptions in a database so they could be added to our website. As I edited the messages displayed on the bricks and pavers, it reminded me how people love their pets so much, they will memorialize them with a testament to their memory. Or, they will pay tribute to a person in their life who loved animals so very much, in some cases more than life itself.

As I read the inscriptions some made me sad while others were quite funny. Here are a few of my favorites, unedited:

“For all the animals that have blessed my life.”

“In memory of my wife.”

“TABATHA 1998 to 2018, I will Love You Forever!”

“In Memory of Gael O'Keefe N Her Kitties”

“SMOKEY 1983-1999 I Miss You”

“Bear you were a bad dog, but we loved you anyway.”

“Princess Fartbutt, we miss your smile but not your …”

“Max you rescued me.”

Again, keep in mind there were over 1,000 bricks and about 30 pavers. The paver that caught my attention the most was the one that read, “MISS SAVANNAH BANANNAH HOLLYWOOD HOUND GENIUS BARRETT GAILEY PRINCESS DEC. 14, 2018 BEST FRIEND EVER”

The relationship between human and pet has changed over the years. Pets have become much more of a family member than just a pet. Millennials are extremely committed to their pets as they spend more on designer collars; research and purchase the best possible food; and board their pets at the fanciest spa-like centers complete with swimming pool and massage therapist. Many millennials have put off having children, but still need to fill their lives with love and companionship so pet ownership is on the rise. As well, millennials are more likely to adopt a shelter animal versus purchasing a pet from a breeder. They recognize the importance of saving a homeless animal from a shelter and giving the pet a loving forever home.

Bricks and pavers are still purchased at HHS on a regular basis. It’s a nice way to tell every visitor who stops by the shelter that you are an animal lover and you are missing your best friend or a family member. If you are like most pet owners, your best friend is also a family member; your dog or cat. Remember, adopt don’t shop.

Contact Barry KuKes, community outreach director for the Halifax Humane Society, at barryk@halifaxhumanesociety.org.