Frequently Asked Questions
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Here are answers to some of the questions we get asked most often at Pet-Paws. If you don't see your question here, feel free to reach out—we're always happy to help!
Are you still making paws?
Yes! Pet-Paws is still happily creating custom pet paw keepsakes. Tracy is taking orders and crafting each piece by hand, just as always.
How long does it take to create my paw?
Every piece is handmade to order, so production time typically ranges from 2–6 weeks depending on current order volume and complexity. You'll receive an estimated completion date in your order confirmation email, and we'll keep you updated if anything changes.
I already have an impression, but it's made from plaster (or clay, or foam clay). Can you use that without damaging it?
Yes! We can carefully create a mold from your existing impression without damaging or altering the original. Your precious keepsake will be returned to you safely along with your finished metal piece.
Important note: When we work from your existing plaster, clay, or foam clay impression, we first make a gentle Play-Doh counter-impression to capture all the details safely. This process results in an imprint-style paw (recessed paw pads) rather than our default relief-style (raised paw pads). Both styles are beautiful and offer the same level of detail.
Just let us know when you place your order that you have an existing impression you'd like us to work from, and we'll take great care of it!
What metal type should I choose?
We offer several beautiful options (bronze, brass, copper, aluminum, or pure silver—check the product page for current choices). Bronze is the most popular— it's classic, durable, and develops a lovely patina over time. Brass is bright yellow. Aluminum is lighter in weight and gives a bright silvery shine. Copper has a nice reddish hue. The price is the same for all metals except for pure silver. There's no "wrong" choice; it comes down to your personal taste and how you plan to display the piece. Feel free to ask for photos of examples if you'd like help deciding!
Can you make a custom shape around my paw?
Yes, we love custom requests! Popular options include hearts, circles, ovals, stars, rectangles, squares (tiles), diamonds, etc. Just describe what you'd like when you place your order (or contact us first), and we'll let you know if it's possible and any extra cost.
Can you make multiple paws from one impression?
Yes! A single good impression can be used to create multiple pieces (for example, one for each family member or gifts). Four or more paws are usually offered at a slight discounted rate—just let us know how many you'd like when ordering.
Can I get an impression from my pet who has passed away?
Yes, absolutely. We create many meaningful memorial pieces for pets who have passed. A gentle paw impression can usually be taken even after your pet has passed, using a simple Play-Doh impression.
Many families find taking the impression to be a comforting part of saying goodbye. If you already have an existing impression, we can work carefully from that as well (see the question above about using your own plaster/clay impression).
We're honored to help you preserve a lasting memory of your beloved companion.
Is the finished piece fragile? How should I care for it?
Our metal paw pieces are sturdy, durable, and built to last a lifetime as cherished keepsakes. They are not fragile once properly finished.
Over time, a beautiful natural patina (a soft aged look) will form on the metal—this is normal and adds character. For everyday care, simply dust gently with a soft, dry cloth.
If you ever want to bring back the original shiny finish (for example, after many years), you can restore it safely at home. We have a simple step-by-step guide just for this:
Read our journal entry: "Restoring the Finish on Your Pet-Paw"
The guide shows you an easy, safe method using a weak solution and common household items—no harsh scrubbing required.
Your finished piece is perfect for display on a shelf, mantel, side table, or inside a shadow box to keep it protected and admired for years to come.
Can you make paws from other animals (not just dogs and cats), or people?
Yes, absolutely! While most orders are for dogs and cats, we love working with all kinds of animals—big, small, feathered, or furry.
Over the years we've happily created pieces from hamsters, flying squirrels, rats, parrots, chickens, pigeons, pigs, cows, wolves, raccoons, alpacas, hawks... and even an asparagus (yes, really—a fun vegetable impression for a gardener!).
We've also made beautiful keepsakes from baby, child, and adult hands and feet—a special way for families to preserve little (or grown) fingerprints and palm details forever.
If your beloved companion—or any special hand, foot, paw, nose, or unique impression—has details you'd like preserved, just reach out.
As long as you can get an impression, we'll do our very best to create a beautiful keepsake for you.
What if my item arrives damaged or is lost in the mail?
We package every piece with great care, but sometimes shipping can be unpredictable. If your paw arrives damaged or doesn't arrive at all (lost in transit), please contact us and we will work on making a new one for you at no cost. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide! International customers are responsible for any customs duties or taxes in their country.
Will you use my pet's impression or finished piece on your website or social media?
We sometimes share photos of completed paw pieces on our website, portfolio, or social media to showcase our handmade work. We never include any personal information (like names or details) alongside the images.
For memorial pieces especially, many customers kindly allow us to feature the finished paw along with the pet's photo (if provided) on our "Kind Words & Memories" page as a loving tribute. This helps honor your pet's memory and brings comfort to others going through similar loss. It's always optional and only done with your explicit permission.
You can opt out completely at any time—just let us know when you place your order or contact us later. We fully respect your privacy and your wishes.
See our Privacy Policy for more details.
Can you make another paw years later from the original wax pattern?
Yes! I keep ALL of the original wax patterns from every Pet-Paws piece I've ever made. This means we can often create an additional or replacement paw even years later, using the exact same pattern as your original.
If you'd like another piece (for example, a gift for another family member or a replacement), just reach out.
To help me locate your specific wax pattern, please send a clear photo of your current Pet-Paw along with any original order details you have (like approximate date, pet's name, or order number). This makes it much easier and faster for me to find the right one in my archives.
Once I locate it, we can discuss options and create a beautiful matching piece for you.
Still have questions?
We're here to help! Please reach out anytime.
Email: tracy@starsunmoon.com
Or via our contact us page.