For many of us, our pets are more than companions; they are family. When they pass, they leave behind a profound void that takes time and tenderness to heal.

The idea of taxidermy can initially feel uncomfortable, even confronting. It is not uncommon to hear, “How could you possibly do that to a beloved pet?” Yet practices such as cremation or burial are widely accepted without question.

Grief expresses itself in different ways, and so too does remembrance. Some choose a painted portrait, others commission a needle-felted likeness, and some opt for a tangible, lasting memorial in the form of taxidermy.

What makes taxidermy unique is its permanence. Long after we ourselves are gone, a beautifully preserved pet can remain; a tribute to their life and a point of connection for future generations. It invites conversation, reflection and admiration, keeping their memory not just alive, but present.

My opinion on pet taxidermy changed drastically after reading a book dedicated to the subject, specifically focused on dogs. Within its pages was a gallery showcasing historical examples of dog taxidermy through the ages. These were animals so deeply cherished that their owners chose to have them preserved, proudly displaying them in their homes. These preserved companions served as tangible reminders of the lives they had shared, the memories, the adventures and the bond that had formed over the years.

Now, with their original owners long since passed, many of these dogs have found their way into museums or private collections. They continue to be admired by countless people, sparking curiosity about their past, the lives they led and the love they must have inspired.

To me, that was something truly beautiful. It cast pet taxidermy in a completely new light, not as something morbid, but as a profound tribute to a life once lived and deeply loved.

Is it still your pet? No. Whatever it was that made your pet who they were — their spirit, their personality, their soul — has moved on to whatever afterlife or existence you believe in. What remains is the physical shell they once inhabited.

I work with that shell. Using clay, foam and other materials, I sculpt a form that resembles your pet. I then carefully lay and shape the preserved fur, recreating the animal’s appearance with respect and attention to detail. Will it look exactly the same? To you, who knew your pet inside and out, every bump, quirk and subtle expression, perhaps not. But then, does a painted portrait ever fully capture those things either?

A piece of pet taxidermy is not your pet returned, but a memorial; a keepsake that represents how much they meant to you in life. In that sense, I encourage people to think of it not as them, but as a portrait in three dimensions. A tribute to the life they lived and the love they gave.

Please take some time to explore examples in my gallery and review the Questions & Answers section on this page. It is important to consider whether this approach feels right for you before using the contact form.

If the idea of pet taxidermy resonates with you, I would be delighted to discuss your options in further detail.

If you like the concept but are unsure about having taxidermy in your home, I also offer free memorial and preservation options for all pets donated to me.