Custom Pet Memorial Ornament: Styles & How to Order
A custom pet memorial ornament is a way to hold onto the memory of a pet you loved. Unlike store-bought ornaments, these are made just for you—with your pet's name, the years they were with you, or words that matter. Each one comes together over 2–5 business days, and you'll see exactly what it will look like before it's printed or engraved.
If you're looking for a way to remember your pet during the holidays—or any time of year—an ornament is something you touch, see, and keep. Here's what you need to know before you order.
Types of Custom Pet Memorial Ornaments
Not all ornaments work the same way. Some are engraved metal. Some have photos. Some are ceramic or wood. Knowing which type fits your vision matters before you click buy.
Engraved Metal Ornaments These are durable and clean. Metal catches light when hung, and engraving stays sharp for years. You choose the text—name, dates, a short phrase. Metal works well if you want something that feels substantial and timeless.
Photo Ornaments If you want to see your pet's face, photo ornaments let you print a favorite image on ceramic or a similar surface. These are more personal, especially if you have multiple pets and want each one distinct. Check the photo quality and size before ordering.
Ceramic & Wood Options Lighter and gentler-feeling. Ceramic can be painted or glazed with colors. Wood ornaments can be stained or left natural. These suit homes with a warmer or rustic aesthetic.
Browse the full range of memorial ornaments to see what speaks to you.
Price & What to Expect
Custom ornaments vary in cost based on material, size, and complexity. A simple engraved metal piece costs less than a full-color photo ornament. Wood or ceramic mid-range options offer balance between budget and personalization.
All Keepsake Grove ornaments are made to order. That means:
- Production takes 2–5 business days after you approve the proof
- US delivery is typically 2–5 business days after that
- UK and EU orders take 5–10 business days
- Free shipping in the US on orders over $50 (see shipping details)
Don't rush the timeline if you're ordering close to a holiday. Order early so there's time for proofs and production.
Who This Gift Is For
A custom pet memorial ornament suits:
- Someone grieving the loss of a beloved pet
- A friend or family member who lost a dog, cat, or other companion
- Pet owners who want to celebrate their pet's life during the holidays
- Someone creating a "pet wall" of memories at home
- Anyone who prefers a keepsake over flowers or a card
It's not therapy; it's simply a tangible way to mark that your pet mattered.
| Gift Type | Best For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Engraved metal | Pet owners who want durability and simplicity | Long-lasting; catches light; timeless |
| Photo ornament | Someone who wants to see their pet's face | Personal; colorful; unique to that animal |
| Ceramic or wood | Homes with warmer, rustic style | Gentle aesthetic; natural materials |
| Multiple ornaments | Families with several lost pets | Each pet gets its own keepsake |
What to Check Before You Order
Personalization only works if the details are right. Before you submit:
- Name spelling: Is it the name you used or a nickname? Double-check.
- Dates: Birth and passing year, or just the pet's name? Decide now.
- Font style: Most ornaments offer serif or sans-serif. Preview what fits.
- Size: Small ornaments (around 2–3 inches) suit tabletop display or trees. Larger ones make bolder statements.
- Photo quality: If you're uploading a pet photo, use a clear, well-lit image. Blurry photos don't engrave or print well.
- Handwritten card: Keepsake Grove offers a handwritten card to include with your ornament. This adds a personal note without extra cost.
Take time with the proof. That's your chance to catch any typos or ask for adjustments before the ornament is made.
Pairing Your Ornament with Other Pet Memorial Gifts
An ornament works on its own, but some shoppers pair it with other keepsakes for a fuller remembrance.
Ornament + Cremation Jewelry If you kept your pet's ashes, a cremation pendant or bracelet lets you carry them. Wear the jewelry; hang the ornament. See cremation jewelry.
Ornament + Pet Memorial Wind Chimes Wind chimes create a gentle, moving tribute in a garden or on a porch. An ornament indoors plus chimes outside balance spaces. Browse memorial wind chimes.
Ornament + Memorial Candle Light a candle during quiet moments. Pair it with an ornament as a ritual of remembrance. Find options in memorial candles.
Ornament + Memorial Stone If you buried your pet or planted a tree in their memory, a garden stone or engraved plaque marks the spot. An ornament brings that memory inside. See memorial stones.
Visit all collections to explore other pet memorial options.
How Personalization & Proofs Work
Keepsake Grove doesn't send your ornament to you until you approve it. Here's the process:
- You order and provide the text or photo you want
- The team prepares a digital or printed proof
- You review spelling, layout, colors, and size
- You approve or request changes
- Once approved, production starts (2–5 business days)
- Your ornament ships to you
This takes a bit longer than ordering mass-made items, but it means your ornament is exactly what you envisioned. There's no guessing. Learn more about how personalization works.
Timing: When to Order
If you're buying for an upcoming holiday:
- Order 2–3 weeks ahead to allow time for proofs and production
- If you're in a time zone away from the US, add a few extra days for transit
If you're ordering for a birthday, anniversary, or day of remembrance tied to your pet's passing, you have more flexibility. But even so, don't wait until the last week; give the team room to work.
See shipping & returns for full details on timelines and delivery.
---
A custom pet memorial ornament honors the pet you loved. It's made to order, personalized to your wishes, and built to last. Whether engraved, photo-printed, or hand-finished, it becomes a quiet, year-round reminder that your pet was here and mattered.
Browse memorial ornaments to start choosing your design today.
Frequently asked questions
Can I include my pet's photo on the ornament?
Yes. Photo ornaments print your pet's image on ceramic or a similar surface. Upload a clear, well-lit photo during checkout. You'll see a proof before printing to confirm quality and placement.
What if I need the ornament quickly?
Production is 2–5 business days, then 2–5 days for US delivery. Plan ahead for holidays. If you're in a rush, contact support via the website to see if expediting is an option.
Can I order multiple ornaments for different pets?
Absolutely. Many people order one for each pet. Each gets its own customization and proof. Keepsake Grove can print a batch together if ordered at the same time.
Is there a handwritten card included?
Yes. You can add a handwritten card to your order at no extra cost. This is optional but many choose it for a more personal touch.
Will the engraving or printing fade over time?
Engraved metal is extremely durable. Photo ornaments last longer indoors or displayed on a shelf than outdoors in direct sun. Ceramic and wood hold detail well if kept out of harsh weather.