By Katy Smith, Celebrant with Fuze Ceremonies & The Fuze Foundation
During our Fuze Foundation month of Remembrance, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of the connections that bring us comfort, particularly the quiet, constant companionship of our pets. With November’s Remembrance Day and the ‘To Absent Friends’ festival alongside us, it’s fitting time to pause and honour all those—human and animal—who have shaped our lives and lifted our spirits when we needed it most. It’s a beautiful opportunity to celebrate those relationships, which, though often understated, are deeply felt.
I often think of my beautiful cat, Belle. For years, she was by my side, seeming to know just when I needed her calming presence. I remember her jumping onto my lap, giving me a steady gaze that somehow conveyed all the understanding in the world. Belle would sit there, gently placing her paw on me if I took too long to respond, until I acknowledged her quiet offering of comfort. As many of us who are lucky enough to be our cat’s chosen human know, this level of connection isn’t always what people associate with cats.
Pictured above: My wee Belle (and those eyes of course)
My beautiful Belle seemed to sense when I was uptight and with those expressive eyes were communicating something to me, something comforting. Dogs, of course, are famous for this; their unwavering loyalty and instinctive empathy are undeniable. But I think many cat owners would agree—our feline friends often understand us in ways only they can.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (the RSPCA) exist to inspire everyone to create a better world for every animal and every day, they strive change lives, laws, industries and minds so all animals can live a better life. Read their blog on pet bereavement HERE.
Remembrance, for me, also means remembering Belle’s calm support, her quiet companionship, and the solace she brought during challenging times. I’m already feeling the weight of this season without her; it’s going to be a long winter without my little friend by my side.
And yet, as we remember, it’s comforting to acknowledge that the connections we share with our pets go far beyond their lifetimes. The love we feel for them, the memories of their loyalty, and the comfort they gave are lasting. Whether it’s a dog’s happy nuzzle or a cat’s unblinking gaze, they have a special way of offering us solace, just when we need it most.
Pictured above: A pet cemetery in Edinburgh
At Fuze Ceremonies, we understand that these connections matter. Our pets are family, after all, and they deserve to be honoured in a way that reflects the joy and comfort they brought us. We’re here to help you celebrate the lives of your beloved pets, allowing their memories to live on in a meaningful, personal way.
During this Remembrance season, may we cherish all those—human and animal—who have brought warmth into our lives.
We remember them with gratitude, love, and an enduring sense of connection.
By Katy Smith, Celebrant with Fuze Ceremonies
