After our pet bird died, we packed him in a little shoe box.
Why did you choose a little shoe box? Where did you get that idea?
We did it because it fit our bird perfectly.
It's sweet that you gave him a little ceremony.  People should be respectful of the deceased, even if they're just pets.
I think my dad made him out to be a big deal.
It was a member of the family and it was a big deal. It was a good thing to do to celebrate its life.