A frame with Louie the dog sits atop the ashes spread at a memorial tree. this is a pet's ashes in a memorial forest
FOREST STORIES

A Loving Pet Tribute

A celebration of Louie, a sweet rescue dog and cherished companion.

Saying Goodbye

Losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest life experiences fora family to endure. For the Nobriga Family, saying goodbye to their sweet and adorable dog, Louie, was a momentous occasion filled with love, memories, and peace. His final resting place at their chosen Memorial Tree has brought them closure and allowed them to keep his spirit alive.

Louie the dog lays on a bed with his paws up in the air

Happy Memories

Louie brought immense joy into their lives from the moment they brought him home at eight weeks old. “He looked like a stuffed animal, with both ears flopping to one side, like he was standing in a strong breeze,” remembers Jessica. Louie was full of energy, especially when he was near water. “He loved the ocean and rivers, chasing balls and sticks, going chest-deep into the waves” Jessica shares with a smile.

There were also plenty of adventurous moments, like the camping trip where Louie snuck and devoured hotdogs and s’mores…then had an unfortunate incident in the tent. But mostly, Louie was a constant, loving companion who enjoyed hikes, lying by Jessica’s feet while she worked, and snuggling up to her when she needed comfort.

“Anytime anything was bad, he was there offering snuggles and just made me feel better about life.”

-Jessica N.

Point Arena Memorial Forest, California

Finding a Special Tree

When Louie’s time drew near, his family wanted to ensure his final resting place was as special as the life he had lived. They decided on a Better Place Forests Memorial Tree, knowing it would provide a peaceful and beautiful spot to lay their family to rest, including their beloved Louie when the time came.

Jessica had initially chosen a Memorial Tree online but found herself drawn to a different tree when visiting the Point Arena Memorial Forest in person with a Guide. The Memorial Tree they selected (marked with the significant number 2010—both the year Jessica got married and the year Louie was born) stood tall and majestic on a hiking trail in the redwood forest.

a pet tribute at a memorial tree with a frame of louie the dog. This is an example of a ceremony for burial of pet cat

Pet Tribute Ceremony

With their plans in place for themselves and Louie, when he passed it was hard, but knowing he was going to be among the beauty of the forest made it easier. “I’m glad to know that he’s there and that’s our spot and we’ll be there, someday, ” says Jessica.

Louis was put to rest at their Memorial Tree during a Pet Tribute Ceremony that was heartfelt and personal. A Better Place Forests Point Arena Team Member decorated the base of their Memorial Tree with huckleberry branches and rhododendron flowers, creating a nest for the ashes, making the site even more special. 

Jessica’s family, including her daughter Ivy, actively participated in mixing Louie’s ashes with soil and placing them in the nest. This act of saying goodbye in such a serene environment provided the entire family a sense of closure and peace.


“It was really special that we could participate in the ceremony. It made my heart more at peace knowing that he’s there and he’s gonna be part of this beautiful forest where we can visit him and that eventually we’ll be there with him.”

-Jessica N.

Point Arena Memorial Forest, California

Finding Peace and Moving Forward

For Jessica, the experience of laying Louie to rest in the Redwoods was healing. “It’s so peaceful up there,” she says. “It’s hard losing him, but I’m glad to know that he’s there.”

This moment of closure was crucial for Jessica to open her heart again. “I don’t know if I would have been ready to get a new dog if we didn’t have that moment to say goodbye.” Now, with Louie’s memory honored, Jessica and her family are preparing to welcome a new rescue puppy into their lives, keeping Louie’s spirit alive through their love for another dog in need.

Louie’s Memorial Tree in the redwood forest isn’t just a place; it’s a living tribute that carries on his energy and spirit. For Jessica, this meaningful tribute has brought peace and allowed her to cherish Louie’s legacy while opening her heart to a new pet.

If you’re looking for a way to honor your beloved pet and find peace, consider a Better Place Forests Memorial Tree, where you can legally spread pet ashes and honor them with a Pet Tribute Ceremony. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a heartfelt tribute that celebrates the life and love of your cherished companion.

“The Tribute Ceremony was a moment of closure, knowing that
we’ve sent him on his way. I‘m glad to know that he’s there and that’s
our spot and we’ll be there someday.”

-Jessica N.

Point Arena Memorial Forest, California

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Couple and dog at Memorial Tree with Guide

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