“We believe that every member of the family deserves a peaceful place of rest, including our beloved pets,” said Ferncliff Executive Director Shelley Baker. “The name Whispering Memories perfectly captures the peaceful and reflective environment we aim to create.”
The project, which started in August 2024, includes more than 120 new shrubs that were planted surrounding the space, and finishing touches will be in place by spring.
Cemetery officials are waiting the installation of several granite benches and a distinctive steel arch sign, custom-made by Hays Fabricating and Welding, Inc., that will stand atop crafted stone columns and mark the entrance of the pet cemetery, Baker said. There will also be a stone walkway to guide visitors to a serene space for quiet reflection, “where the gentle whispers of nature create a sense of peace and remembrance," hence the name.
“Each pet is a cherished part of someone’s life. With this renovation, we created a space that offers comfort, reflection, and a meaningful way to honor the pets that brought so much joy to their families,” Baker said.
Credit: Bill Lackey
Credit: Bill Lackey
The International Association Of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories says pet burials and other aftercare services have grown in recent years. The IAOPCC says while many pet owners want to bury their pet at home, zoning regulations in some places prohibit that, and it may not be a good option for those who rent or are likely to move.
Ferncliff’s pet cemetery opened in 2018 when a 3-acre piece of land on the west side of the cemetery, owned by The Springfield Cemetery Association, “was declared restricted and conveyed for use as a pet cemetery.” Over 100 pets currently rest in the cemetery, with a majority of the space still available.
It’s a separate for-profit corporation and operating unit of Ferncliff under Ohio laws and the administrative rules of the Department of Agriculture, Baker said.
In 2021, a master plan included key recommendations to improve the pet cemetery design with a clear entry, central walkway with focal feature, edge landscaping, dedicated accessible parking and new signage.
The design is by landscape architect Roger Beal of Yellow Springs Design, and the contractor for the project is Ground Systems Inc.
“Whispering Memories Pet Haven is located in a natural meadowlike area where nearby we plan to further (develop) natural green burial for humans and other environmentally friendly options, creating a serene and sustainable final resting place,” Baker said.
Although the Whispering Memories Pet Haven is open now and available for burials and services, a grand re-opening will be held in the spring to celebrate the new space and officially introduce it to the community.
A portion of the revenue from each pet lot sale is deposited into the pet cemetery perpetual care fund to make sure there is money available for the pet cemetery upkeep. Officials also offer a pet cemetery pre-need trust fund for families who choose to pre-pay for their pet’s burial expenses.
Ferncliff began with 70 acres of land in 1863 as a nonprofit organization for the Springfield community. The cemetery is located at 501 W. McCreight Ave.
Credit: Bill Lackey
Credit: Bill Lackey
The pet cemetery section offers lots, caskets, cremation urns and urn vaults, and custom designed memorial markers and monuments. Pet packages are available, and graveside memorial and committal services are also available for families wanting a full traditional service.
Full body burials of any type of animal up to 200 pounds or burial of the pet’s cremated remains are offered, and burial of any service animal, with proof of service, is free. Arrangements can be made for your pet to be picked up at your home or your vet’s office.
For more information on the pet cemetery, visit www.ferncliffcemetery.org/pet-packages.
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