How Is Pet Cremation Performed?

Pet cremation can be performed individually or in a group. When done separately, it is known as private cremation, wherein a pet is incinerated in a cremation chamber within a crematory.

The intense heat reduces the body to its basic elements with dried bone fragments. So, the cremains containing shards and pieces are pulverized to get a white to grey powder of uniform consistency.

In communal cremation, the process involves the cremation of animals together in a group in the same chamber or retort.

Should I Choose Cremation Or Burial For My Pet?

Whether you should go for burial or cremation is a personal choice. Most pet owners opt for cremation of their beloved companions because it is environment-friendly, cost-effective, and practical solution.

Plus, it is more convenient option as you can carry the cremated ashes of your beloved companion with you in case you move to another home. Besides, some municipalities may discourage the interment of pets that have not been cremated.

How Much Does A Pet Cremation Cost?

The average cost of pet cremation is about $50-$150. The cost tends to vary because it depends on factors like the type of cremation you choose, your pet’s weight, your location, and so on.

How Long Does It Take To Cremate A Pet?

Smaller animals like birds, rabbits, hamsters, ferrets, Guinea pigs, small-breed dogs and cats are usually incinerated in a short time, that is, within 30-45 minutes. Larger animals, however, may take hours, depending upon the weight.

What If My Pet Dies At Home?

Most pet crematories offer services like collecting the deceased pet from your home and returning the cremated remains to you within a few days.

They usually charge an additional fee if the pet has died in the evening after their business hours or during a weekend.

You can ask your vet to recommend a local pet cremation service that can take immediate action. In case you need time to decide, you may keep the body at the vet’s office for a few days.

Do Most Veterinary Clinics And Hospitals Have A Crematory?

Most veterinaries do not have their own crematories on site. Thus, more often than not, they use veterinary clinics or third-party providers as they have professional relationships with pet crematories.

Can My Pet’s Blanket And Other Belongings Also Be Cremated?

Most crematories do not cremate pets with plastic toys, blankets, and other belongings as regulatory agencies do not allow this practice because it not an environment-friendly.

Some cremation services, nevertheless, may allow cremation of pets with small swatches or blankets prepared from natural fibers.

How Do I Know That I Have Received The Correct Cremains?

More often than not, reputed crematories have proper procedures to ensure that they keep the cremation remains of different pets separately. This is usually done with the help of identification tags.

However, unlike private cremations, if you choose individual or communal pet cremations, you may receive mixed ashes as these procedures involve group cremations.

Besides, you may request the crematory to allow you to view the process of cremation so that you can keep a check yourself. Plus, witnessing the process provides a sense of closure.

Would I Need A Casket For Getting My Pet Cremated?

No, it is not necessary to buy a casket for your pet. Instead, you can simply wrap your beloved companion in a favorite blanket (avoid foam bedding).

Nevertheless, if you are interested in getting your pet cremated in a casket, you may purchase it. Make sure it is prepared from combustible material, though.