Pet Cremation

Cremation is a popular choice for many pet owners, not only does it provide flexibility with relocating, unlike burial, but it also offers many options to pay tribute to your pet with their ashes. Pet cremation can be as involved and personal as you like. Whichever route you choose, there is a great deal to think about when it comes to having your pet cremated.

What to Expect

Once your pet has passed away, pet crematoriums will usually collect your pet’s remains from your home or veterinary practice. You can also bring your companion to the crematorium yourself, however you may need to book an appointment. Your pet’s remains will then be stored in refrigeration before the cremation itself. Once the cremation has taken place, your pet’s ashes will be returned to you, depending on which service you choose. Turnaround times for this will vary, so make sure to allow time if you are planning a memorial to scatter their ashes. Although, many pet crematoriums offer a same day service but often at an extra charge.

Individual or Communal Cremation?

There are two ways your pet can be cremated, either individually or communally along with other pets. Think carefully about which is best for you and your family, as communal cremation means that the ashes will not only be your pet’s. In most cases you cannot have your pet’s ashes returned and instead are often scattered on your behalf in a memorial garden. Individual cremation on the other hand, means you can have your pet’s ashes returned to you, and will only be your pet’s ashes. Your decision may be influenced by whether you have plans for your pet’s ashes or financial reasons as individual cremation is more expensive. There is no right or wrong. If you are concerned about the legitimacy of a crematorium and its practices, ensure they are part of The Association of Private Pet Cemeteries & Crematoria which regulates their practices.

Attended Cremations

Pet owners will often have the option to attend the individual cremation of their pet at an additional charge. It can give families peace of mind being present whilst their pet is placed into the chamber and often provides some comfort in knowing that your pet is definitely individually cremated. If you choose to take your pet to the crematorium or wish to attend the cremation, crematoriums usually provide a room to allow a final goodbye with you and your pet.

Extra Touches

You can make your pet’s cremation as personal as you like. Many crematoriums are flexible and offer beautiful touches which can really make a difference to families and their grief. Before the cremation takes place, clay or ink paw print impressions can be taken as well as fur cuttings to be used as mementos. Owners may also have the option to place their pet’s favourite toys, blankets or collar alongside their pet for their cremation. Depending on the crematorium’s policy, a pet coffin could also be used to create a personal goodbye. Pet caskets come in a variety of designs and eco-friendly materials including willow, seagrass, water hyacinth and rattan to name a few.

Ashes

Once your pet has been individually cremated the ashes will either be returned to you or your veterinary practice, can be scattered at the crematorium on your behalf or buried on site. If you wish to have your pet’s ashes returned to you or your veterinary practice, owners can choose to provide their own pet ashes urn sourced elsewhere, or pick a pet ashes casket offered by the crematorium.

Pet Ashes Caskets & Urns

When deciding on the pet ashes casket which is best for you, thinking about what you plan to do with your pet’s ashes will help. If you plan on scattering the ashes, it may be best to choose a pet ashes scattering tube or scattering pouch. These will be more practical as they are light weight and can be easily carried to the site of your choosing. Ashes scattering tubes also have a special system which allows control and ease with the scattering, preventing ashes blowing back at you. Make sure to check advice on scattering ashes. If you plan to bury your pet ashes casket, you may feel you’d like to choose a biodegradable pet ashes urn made with natural materials, such as willow, seagrass or rattan. Alternatively, if you wish to store your pet’s ashes on display in your home, you may choose an ashes casket which fits the décor of your home. With the array of materials available today, such as natural stone, marble, teak or wicker, you will be sure to find the right pet ashes casket for you, whichever purpose you have in mind.