I was at the dog park this weekend and came across a guy with an amazing tattoo of a dog on his calf. I asked him about it and he shared with me that his dog recently died and to memorialize the dog he got a life-like tattoo of him. The love he shared with his dog was evident.

When I've lost animals in the past, it feels as if a part of me has died as well. Eventually, loving memories replace grief. But I never forget them and cherish the fond memories.

I already have a tattoo in the middle of my back. It is a large oak tree. For me, it stands for strength. To reach for the sky, but keep grounded. It reminds me to change and bend when necessary—-but remain upright and continue to grow.

When it's time for Dakota to cross the rainbow bridge, I've often wondered if I'll have an image of her added under my tree or represent her spirit with a single snowflake (she loves snow and her name was Snowflake when we adopted her). Only time will tell, and I can wait.

Do any of you have tatoos of your animals? Would you consider having a tattoo of your pet immortalized on your body? Or is that just too much?