Paris’s Pet Cemetery

“Le Cimetière des Chiens et Autres Animaux Domestiques” or “The Cemetery of Dogs and Other Domestic Animals” is the world’s oldest pet cemetery. It’s located in Asnières-sur-Seine, a suburb of Paris. It was built in 1898 in response to a law making it illegal for Parisians to bury their deceased pets wherever they liked. The cemetery is the final resting place of several famous animals, including the German Shepard Rin Tin Tin (star of 27 Hollywood films). It contains extravagant tombs, graves and statues in remembrance of many cherished animals. Dogs specifically have a long history as “man’s best friend.” Studies suggest that dog ownership has many benefits including health and wellness. Service dogs not only help people with physical disabilities or other special needs, but can also be trained to cheer up hospital patients. Thoughtful, touching inscriptions highlighting the importance of these bonds adorn graves in the Paris Pet Cemetery.

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