From MLive Muskegon: https://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/2025/10/new-pet-cemetery-opens-in-west-michigan-to-memorialize-furry-companions.html
By Kayla Tucker| ktucker@mlive.com
SHELBY TWP., MI – A West Michigan township has added a pet cemetery for the community.
The Woodside Pet Memorial, located at 2867 W. Woodrow Road in Oceana County’s Shelby Township, is now dedicated to people’s beloved furry companions.
“Where can I bring my loved one, my furry friend if they pass away?” said Richard Raffaelli, township supervisor, adding that local residents previously had to drive far to bury their pets.
The 10-acre parcel next to Mt. Hope Cemetery features a large welcoming arch that leads into a large green space with a cross-section sidewalk and bench seating at the center. A gazebo with benches provides shaded seating.
The cemetery caters to both cremated remains and burial plots. There is space for approximately 650 plots, but the township could expand on the site, Raffaelli said.
Since the cemetery’s opening in the last month, 42 plots have been sold, about half of those to residents.
Burial lots are $300 for township residents and $350 for non-residents. A full burial, which would include a casket, could cost $120 to $300 more. Animals more than 100 pounds could incur additional charges.
Cremation burials cost $150 on weekdays and $200 on weekends for township residents and $200 on weekdays and $250 on weekends for non-residents. Up to two cremains are permitted per plot.
The Courageous Companions Garden is a specialized burial plot area for law enforcement or military animals, therapy animals and service animals, including K-9 service dogs, school therapy pets and animals trained to support individuals with disabilities.
“The garden recognizes the diligence, training and temperament needed for these animals to perform their unique tasks for the betterment of their handler and community,” the website states.
Before burial in the garden, pets will need to be verified as specialized or service animals.
People will also have options to reserve space at the park to hold ceremonies for their pets, Raffaelli said.
The pet cemetery will be incorporated into the township’s park and cemetery plan.
The total project cost was $65,000, Raffaelli said, and the township chipped in $26,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The difference is being paid for by private donations.
If the cemetery fills up to 75%, the revenue could fund an expansion, Raffaelli said.
The township had dirt moved, gravel roads created and a parking lot paved.
A local steel fabricator constructed the 18-foot archway “welcoming people into the cemetery,” Raffaelli said.
He said a couple residents expressed an interest in having a pet cemetery, but there wasn’t an overwhelming request for one. He said township leaders did speak to local veterinarians.
“It was a natural fit,” Raffaelli said.
Mt. Hope Cemetery has about 9,000 human plots on about 10 acres.
The township opened up a new community park last year, which saw 110,000 visitors in its first year.
An indoor athletic facility is being constructed next to the park, gearing up to serve families around the county and surrounding communities with indoor sports and entertainment options.
