Why I make pet urns

In October 2001, I got a phone call from a very distraught woman who's pet Rottweiller had just passed away. She was familiar with my work and was interested in having me make an urn for her.  She thought that I might possibly offer her something a little more unique and personal than the other urns she was able to find elsewhere.  After arranging the details and getting a photo, I began making her urn. That following week, my beautiful, sweet cat, Bisque, died suddenly.  I was devastated; as I'm sure any of you who have experienced the loss of a loved pet know first-hand.

The urn I had been making for this woman suddenly took on a new meaning for me and many tears were shed during it's construction.  Her reaction when she held it in her hands filled me with feelings of empathy and compassion that I find hard to describe. We cried and hugged, and somehow both felt as if we had shared in each other's grief. She was clearly touched by what I had made, as touched as I had been while making it.

 Reflecting upon this while grieving myself, I realized that through my pottery I had possibly helped someone start along the long path of healing.  That experience was so personally gratifying that I decided right then that I’d like to continue making pet urns for others.

  I realize that it's hard to find a vessel that seems appropriate and special enough to house something so very personal and dear, and each urn or plaque that I make is as unique and special as the  loving relationship you share with your pet.

  It is my sincere hope that my urns offer you something more to share between you and your adored pet.  I look forward to working with you in designing an urn that will be cherished for years to come.

Ann Cheers

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