When a beloved pet passes away, many opt to memorialize their furry family member by placing their remains in an urn.
However, many pet owners find themselves curious about what their former companion’s ashes look like, whether out of morbid curiosity or simply as a way to seek closure and feel connected to their beloved pet in a tangible way.
But as much as they want to see their pet’s remains, many pet owners wonder if it is bad luck to open the urn and view their pets’ ashes after they have passed on.
Opening a pet urn can be a difficult decision for some, as there is no definitive answer to this question, and it all depends on personal beliefs and opinions.
Nonetheless, it’s a question worth asking, answering, and learning more about.
Is it Bad Luck to Open an Urn?
It’s hard to say, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a definitive answer to this one.
It’s a personal decision, and it all depends on what an individual believes in superstitions.
Generally speaking, however, opening a pet urn is not considered bad luck as long as the process is done with respect and reverence for the deceased pet.
In some cultures, opening the urn might be seen as disrespectful or even inviting misfortune into your life.
In other cultures, it might be viewed as a way of honoring and remembering the pet that has passed away.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide whether or not they want to open the urn and take a look inside.
It’s important to consider any religious or spiritual implications associated with opening the urn before making this decision.
Before we continue, here is what the major religions have to say about opening pet urns:
• Christianity—It’s generally not viewed as bad luck. However, some denominations may view it as disrespectful.
• Buddhism – Buddhists believe in reincarnation, so there is no superstitious belief associated with opening a pet urn.
• Hinduism – Generally speaking, Hindus believe that the spirit of the deceased animal inhabits the ashes of their remains, and therefore, opening the urn could be seen as an insult or bad luck.
• Islam – Muslims believe in burial, not cremation, and so opening a pet urn would generally be seen as disrespectful.
How to Safely & Properly Open a Pet Urn?
Before you begin, don’t underestimate the fact that opening your deceased pet’s ashes can bring up strong emotions that can prove harder than you might’ve thought it would be.
While seeing your pet’s ashes can provide closure and comfort, it can also trigger sadness and grief in those who already miss their companion animal dearly.
If you’re unsure how you would react emotionally (and spiritually) if you were to open the urn, it may be best not to take this step just yet until you are sure of your feelings about doing so.
On the other hand, if you do decide to open your deceased pet’s ashes, there are certain ways in which it should be done safely and respectfully.
Firstly, it is essential that all safety precautions are taken, such as wearing gloves when handling anything related to an animal that has passed away.
Next, you want to open the container very slowly and carefully, as yanking it open could cause ashes to spill or become airborne, or the container might even slip out of your hands and break.
Additionally, avoid holding the container too close to your face and hold a safe distance as you open your pet’s ashes, as you may accidentally inhale some of the particles.
Finally, make sure that any area where these items will be stored is clean and free from dust or debris beforehand so that nothing contaminates your pet’s remains while they are in storage.
As you open the urn, take your time and consider setting a peaceful atmosphere where you can reflect on the memories of your beloved pet and approach the moment with reverence and love.
Regardless of whether you choose to open the pet’s ashes or not, honoring and remembering them in another way can help provide comfort during this difficult time in your life.
Keeping photographs of your pet around your home or writing down memories of them are both great ways of commemorating them without having to face any potential feelings associated with actually looking at their cremains inside an urn if this doesn’t feel right for you at this time.
Ultimately deciding whether opening an urn is bad luck is entirely up to personal opinion – there is no correct answer here!
Is it Bad Luck to Keep Pet Ashes at Home?
For many pet owners, the decision to keep their pet’s ashes at home is a personal one, shaped by the bond they share with their pets, their cultural practices, and their comfort with the idea.
Some individuals find comfort and a sense of peace in having their pet’s ashes nearby, allowing them to feel a continued presence.
Others may choose to scatter the ashes in a place that was special to their pet or opt for burial in a pet cemetery, depending on personal preference or belief systems.
If you’re contemplating keeping your pet’s ashes at home but are concerned about cultural taboos or the idea of bad luck, consider what feels most respectful and comforting for you and your family in honoring your pet’s memory.
It might also be beneficial to discuss your feelings with family members or seek advice from someone who understands your cultural or spiritual concerns.
If keeping a full-sized pet urn or a larger container with your deceased pet’s ashes at home isn’t an option, consider using smaller keepsake urns or custom jewelry pieces designed to hold a portion of your pet’s ashes. These smaller containers provide a more discreet and portable way to keep your pet close to you while allowing you to divide the ashes among family members or scatter them in meaningful locations.
Ultimately, how you choose to remember and honor your pet should align with what brings you peace and helps you celebrate the love and moments you shared together.
