Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but finding the right method for their final journey can provide some comfort. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to arrange a pet cremation for your beloved pet.
Compassionate Care has been at the forefront of pet end-of-life services since 2009, providing eco-friendly pet cremation. And we’re here to help you every step of the way, from selecting a trusted provider to choosing memorial options to honor your pet’s memory.
Jump to:
- #1 Pet Cremation Service Providers by Pet Type
- #2 Decide on the Type of Cremation You Prefer
- #3 Additional Considerations for Pet Cremation Arrangements
- Conclusion
#1 Pet Cremation Service Providers by Pet Type
When it comes to pet cremation, there are several options available depending on the type of pet. Many local veterinarians, animal hospitals, and dedicated pet crematories offer these services, but it’s important to know what to expect for different types of pets.
- Dogs and Cats: Most pet cremation services readily cater to dogs and cats. Whether through a vet, an animal hospital, or a dedicated pet crematory, you’ll typically have the choice between private and communal cremation.
- Pocket Pets: Pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and birds can often be cremated at the same facilities that handle dogs and cats. However, it’s always best to check with the provider to ensure they can accommodate smaller animals.
- Horses and Large Animals: Horse cremation is a unique service that typically requires specialized equipment and facilities. For this reason, you’ll need to seek out providers who specialize in equine cremation or large animal cremation.
If you’re in the greater Portland area, we can assist you with pet cremation services for dogs, cats, and pocket pets.
#2 Decide on the Type of Cremation You Prefer
There are several cremation options available, each offering a different approach to honoring their memory. Understanding these options can help you make the choice that feels right for you and your pet.
- Flame-Based Cremation: Flame-based cremation is a common method used for pet cremations. This process involves the use of high heat and natural gas to reduce the pet’s body to bone, which is further processed down into what is commonly referred to as “ash”, which are then returned to the owner. It’s a widely available option offered by most veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and pet crematories.
- Aquamation (Water Cremation): Aquamation, also known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, is a more environmentally friendly alternative to flame-based cremation. This process uses alkali, and gently heated and agitated water to gently break down the pet’s body, resulting in a similar end product often referred to as cremains. Aquamation is considered to be a much more sustainable and natural option, as it uses less energy and produces fewer emissions.
- Communal Cremation: Communal cremation involves cremating multiple pets together, and the resulting remains are not returned. This is often a more affordable choice and may be offered by many veterinarians and crematories.
- Private Cremation: In a private cremation, your pet is cremated individually, and you will receive only their ashes or cremains. This option provides a more personal way to honor your pet, and many owners find comfort in keeping their pet’s ashes or cremains in a special urn or scattering them in a meaningful place.
When deciding on a cremation option, consider what feels most meaningful and appropriate for you and your pet.
If you’re in the Greater Portland area, we can help you arrange for either flame-based cremation or aquamation services, with options for both communal and private cremation.
#3 Additional Considerations for Pet Cremation Arrangements
Now that you’re familiar with the different cremation options available, there are a few more details to consider to ensure the process goes smoothly and aligns with your wishes.
Pre-Cremation Considerations
Before the cremation process begins, there are a few special items and keepsakes you may want to consider preserving. If you’d like to keep a paw print, a lock of fur, or any other memento, it’s important to arrange this before your pet is sent for cremation. These keepsakes can be incredibly meaningful and provide a tangible connection to your pet.
It’s also worth noting that the type of cremation you choose can affect how certain items are handled. For example, aquamation works only on flesh, meaning any non-organic items, like flower petals or blankets placed with your pet, will remain intact. In contrast, flame-based cremation burns everything, so any items included will be reduced to ashes.
To avoid losing anything you wish to keep, be sure to communicate your wishes to your veterinarian or cremation provider prior to completion of the cremation.
Drop-Off or Pick-Up Arrangements:
One of the first logistical decisions you’ll need to make is how your pet will be transported to the crematory or vet clinic. Many facilities (like Compassionate Care) offer pick-up services, which can be particularly comforting during such an emotional time.
Alternatively, if you prefer, you can drop off your pet yourself. This decision may depend on your personal comfort level, your budget, the distance to the facility, and whether or not you have the means to transport your pet.
Budget Considerations:
Cremation costs can vary depending on the method you choose (flame-based vs. aquamation), the size of your pet, whether you opt for private or communal cremation, and any additional services like pick-up or memorial arrangements.
It’s important to consider your budget when making these decisions, as well as to ask for a detailed breakdown of costs upfront to avoid any surprises.
Memorializing Your Pet:
Planning how to memorialize your pet doesn’t need to be rushed. You can take the time to consider what feels right for you and your family once you have your pet’s remains back.
Some common options include keeping the ashes in a special urn, scattering them in a meaningful location, or holding a small memorial service.
For something more personal and creative, consider planting a tree or garden in your pet’s memory, creating a scrapbook or photo album that celebrates their life, or even commissioning a custom piece of art or jewelry incorporating their ashes. Another idea is to write a letter or a poem that expresses your love and gratitude for the time you shared together.
If you’re planning a specific event or project, keep in mind that certain cremation methods, such as aquamation, may take some time—our facility may take up to a 10-14 days turnaround. Planning around this can help you create a meaningful tribute without feeling rushed.
Cemetery Burial as an Alternative to Cremation
For those who prefer not to choose cremation, cemetery burial is a traditional option for laying your pet to rest. Many pet cemeteries offer designated plots where you can bury your pet, often with the option of a headstone or marker to commemorate their life. This choice allows you to have a specific place to visit and reflect, providing a sense of peace and continuity.
Cemetery burial also allows you to involve your family in the process, giving everyone a chance to say their goodbyes and participate in creating a lasting tribute. You may choose to have a small service or gathering at the gravesite, where friends and family can share memories and offer support.
When considering cemetery burial, it’s important to check the local regulations and the offerings of pet cemeteries in your area. Some cemeteries may have specific requirements regarding caskets, grave markers, and other aspects of the burial process. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more personalized touch, some cemeteries offer the option to plant a tree or install a bench near your pet’s resting place.
Conclusion
Arranging a pet cremation is a thoughtful way to honor the life of your beloved companion. And choosing how to say goodbye to your beloved pet is a deeply personal decision.
At Compassionate Care, we understand the importance of providing a peaceful and respectful end-of-life experience for your pet. Our pet cremation services offer gentle, eco-friendly options designed to honor your pet’s memory with dignity and care. Call us today and let us help you make this difficult time a little easier.
