Inside the world of pet funerals

In the expansive and immaculate hall stand several display cases, showcasing a collection of pet funeral products and memorial keepsakes. Among them are urns in various colors, shapes, and sizes, frames preserving pet paw prints, diamonds formed from pet ashes, and pendants embedded with strands of pet fur.

In the farewell room, a long, well-lit niche is built into the wall. Inside, a model of a lush green hill is adorned with cotton clouds and miniatures of pine cones, a candy-colored cottage, scattered yellow stars and white running animals. At the front, a small rainbow marks the place known as Rainbow Star, where pets reside after passing.

In the center of the niche, an empty photo frame awaits pictures of beloved pets. In front of it, a table holds pens, animal stickers, and a box of tissues. Wang opens a loose-leaf notebook and explains, "Here, owners can write their memories and thoughts about their departed animals."

At Rainbow Star, a typical funeral lasts around two hours, though some pet owners choose to stay much longer, with some even spending the night.

In this somber setting, Wang has witnessed countless touching moments showing people's profound love for their pets, whether they are expensive purebred cats and dogs, adopted strays, or other animals like pet snakes and hamsters.

Meanwhile, he has also noticed some changes.

In the past, many people, especially young adults and the elderly, would visit the store alone. In the past two years, however, more people have been coming with friends or colleagues. "People seem more willing to seek support during such difficult times," he suggests.

Another shift is that more families are bringing young children and elderly parents to pet funerals. Wang now frequently sees entire families — great-grandparents, grandparents, parents, and even babies — attending these send-offs.

Many Chinese people may struggle with explaining death to their children, who often demonstrate a surprisingly mature understanding of the concept.

One elementary school boy left a note to his deceased pet chicken, Gugu.

He wrote, "Gugu, thank you for keeping me company during these days. Although our time together was short, it was filled with happiness. Since you were sick and even the doctor couldn't help, I brought you plenty of millet today as provisions for your journey. Keep your wisdom and embark on your adventure in another world! I hope in that world, you won't be confined to a cage anymore and can run freely. If you can fly, that would be even better!" Signed, your human friend, Lin Xiaoyan.

"It seems like the death of a pet is no longer a taboo for them," Wang says.

With the rise of social media, a growing number of individuals are sharing their pets' funerals online and expressing their emotions about the loss. Many also seek advice online on how to cope with their grief.

"It's a very positive trend," Wang says.