The passing of a beloved family pet can be a traumatic event in any household. Giving your pet a proper resting place is a comfort to children and provides a sense of closure for the family. Pet owners are faced with decisions when a pet dies. Cremation is one option; burial is another. Either way, a gravestone for your pet is a great way to honor his memory and keep him close to your family. Using a homemade stepping-stone kit, you can create a personal memorial for your pet.
Step One
Choose a spot where your stone can be left to dry undisturbed for two days and spread a plastic cover, such as a trash bag, over your work area.
Step Two
Open your kit and make sure all of the necessary pieces are there. To complete your stone you will need a mold, concrete mix, concrete tint and a trowel. If your kit is missing any items, return to the store for a replacement. If you ordered your kit online, call or email the company and ask them to send your missing items.
Step Three
Mix the bag of concrete with one and one-half cups of water in a pail. Stir with the trowel. Add the concrete tint as you mix. Start with minimal tint and add more until you reach your desired color. If your concrete mix seems too thick, add more water one tbsp. at a time. Your concrete is a good consistency when it slides easily off the trowel.
Step Four
Fill your mold with the concrete. Use your trowel to press the concrete into the mold. When the mold is full, smooth the surface with the back of the trowel.
Step Five
Decorate your stone. Be creative during this step. Using plastic letter imprints, you can imprint your pet’s name. If you don’t have plastic letters, you can carve the letters into the concrete with a stick or even your finger. If you feel it is appropriate, you can take an imprint of your pet’s paw for the stone.
Step Six
Carefully lift the mold straight up and off of your stone.