An Introduction to Pet Cremation Services

My goal is to educate my readers on pet cremation and help pet owners feel more at ease when it comes time to make that final, yet important decision. As someone who has worked in the pet cremation field for three years, I know the process from start to finish.

Once you decide it's time for euthanasia or if your pet has already passed people often wonder, what's next? You may go to Google and search what to do or reach out to your vet. If you choose to bury your pet at home you will need to check your city's laws. If you decide cremation is the right option I am happy to help you figure out the different options crematoriums may offer to you.

Typically, when you place a call to a pet crematorium they will start by asking for information like your name, phone number, your pets name and an estimated weight. Now that they have this information they will ask you if you would like your pets' cremains (ashes) returned or not. From this point you will be given 1-3 cremation options. Some facilities only offer a communal cremation, also referred to as mass cremation. Then you have your semi-private vs. private cremation services.

If you choose communal cremation your pet will be placed in the retort with others, and you will not receive any ashes. Most companies will take your pets ashes to a large property or field and dispose of them there. If you choose to have a semi-private cremation your pet will still be placed into the retort with other animals, but they are separated from one another, usually with refractory brick, so you can be assured you are receiving your pets ashes back. If you are uneasy about a semi-private cremation you can then choose the fully private option. This tends to be a more expensive option as the entire retort is being used for one pet, but this is the best way to ensure only your pet is coming back home. Most companies will return your pets ashes in a decorative tin urn unless you choose to purchase one either through them or on your own. This is not something you have to decide right away, as ashes can be transferred to a different urn at any given time.

Now let's talk about keepsakes. Keepsakes for pets are often requested and highly recommended if you want to have a physical object to display other than an urn or if you choose a communal cremation, but still want a form of memorabilia. Keepsakes range from paw prints, nose prints, fur clippings, jewelry and more. Some crematoriums offer clay, ink and even shadow box prints. The options may feel overwhelming in the moment, but you can always ask to see examples of their work and decide what you think looks best and what you'd be happy taking home.

Losing a pet can be difficult and many people don't think about cremation until they are at a loss on what to do next. The employees at pet crematoriums are always there to help and can walk you through each step so you feel confident in your choice. Never be afraid to ask questions or to see examples of their work.

I hope this brief introduction to pet cremation helps you decide if cremation is right for you and your pet and gives you an idea of where to begin and what to ask your vet or local pet crematoriums.