New Pet Loss Center Opening In Timonium

TOWSON - Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens in Timonium will dedicate a new Pet Loss Center in a ceremony on Saturday. The new facility will provide a place for the Towson/Timonium community to mourn their lost pets.

Many of us know how difficult it can be to lose a pet, and in many Towson homes, pets are a part of the family. WBAL reports that Amy Shimp, general manager of Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens, says that it can be challenging for people to find a location to lay their pet to rest.

"It's a place where people can grieve and say goodbye to their loved ones," Shimp said in a WBAL radio interview. "People sing to their pets. People take them to restaurants, to hotels, but people don't really have a place to say goodbye."

Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens has a long history of honoring pets. In 1967, Dulaney Valley opened its Pet Haven as one of the first pet cemeteries in Baltimore County. In 2012, they added the Pet Sanctuary in response to a growing need in the community, and in 2016, Dulaney Valley began offering "Faithful Friends" where pet owners and their beloved pets may rest next to each other.

The new Pet Loss Center offers various services for pets who have passed away, including funeral services, burial arrangements, private cremation, in-home euthanasia, and pet transport.

According to WBAL, the center was designed with the help of Coleen Ellis, an accredited pet loss professional.

Saturday's dedication ceremony will include a memorial tree planting and is a part of the annual Pet Blessing and Remembrance Ceremony at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.