In Milan, for the first time, a dog was buried together with its owner inside the Bruzzano cemetery. This event marks a historic moment in the Lombard capital, representing the concrete application of a new municipal regulation that allows the burial of pets in the same grave as their owners.
The City of Milan has implemented regional guidelines that allow, subject to cremation, the burial of the ashes of pets (such as dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, fish and other small animals) in the same burial or family tomb as the deceased. This is the fulfillment of a request felt by many citizens who wished to be able to remain close to their four-legged friends even after death.
A written will of the deceased is not necessary: a self-certification signed by the heirs expressing the desire to reunite animal and owner is sufficient.
No epigraphs or pictures dedicated only to the animal may be placed on the headstone, but a photograph depicting master and animal together is permitted. Scattering of the animal’s ashes in the cemetery or common cinerary is not allowed.
The municipality called this possibility an “act of civility,” recognizing the emotional value and increasingly important role that pets occupy within families.
Milan’s choice could inspire other Italian cities to adopt similar regulations, fostering greater integration of pets in the farewell journey of people and their families. For example, Milan and Rome have a pet cemetery where people can go to say goodbye to their furry friend. Letters and mementos are left by the owners.