Recently, I had to make one of the hardest decisions of my life, saying goodbye to my beloved dog, Bruno. That phase was not easy for me because along with coping with grief, I had to simultaneously figure out what to do next, which felt overwhelming. 

For us ( Pet parents ) losing our beloved pet is not just like losing an animal it’s like losing a close family member.

That’s why I wanted to share everything I’ve learned about pet cremation in case you’re facing the same heartbreak and don’t know what to do next.

First of all, I sincerely apologize if you’re experiencing something similar. I understand the feeling of losing your beloved pet. Always remember your companion is watching you from heaven. 

This guide is personal as well as informative. From making emotional choices to taking practical actions, from selecting a service to estimating the expenses, I’ll take you through everything I’ve learned about pet cremation.

What is Pet cremation

To be honest, I was hesitant when I first heard the term “pet cremation.” It sounded like Too final, too clinical. However, after doing more research, I discovered it’s a respectable and frequently used method of saying goodbye to your beloved pet.

The process of turning your pet’s body into ashes in a crematory by applying high heat is known as pet cremation. After that, the facility will either return the ashes to you or handle them with dignity.

Cremation seemed like a way to “keep your companion close” to many pet parents, including myself.

Types Of Pet Cremation

There are three main types of pet cremation. At first, I was unaware of all of them, and I thought there was only one standard procedure, that is, to contact any cemetery near me, and then they would do their job. Between these three kinds, you can choose according to your budget and emotional comfort.

1. Personal Cremation

Personal cremation indicates that the chamber is only used for your pet. Only the ashes of your pet are given to you.

This is what I personally picked for Bruno. It seemed respectful to me that I will only get his ashes and not any other pet ashes.

2. Cremation in the Community

In this case, several pets are cremated together, and the ashes are not returned. It’s less individualized but more reasonably priced.

This could be useful if you’re on a limited budget or don’t feel comfortable storing ashes. Just know that you won’t get your remains back.

3. Cremation in private

Similar to personal cremation, this frequently involves extra services like paw prints and customized urns. It is typically the priciest.

Some of my friends chose to do this, and the additional customs brought them great comfort.

What Included In Pet Cremation Process?

I was anxious when I questioned a cremation service about the procedure for the first time. However, the staff is good and gives a gentle explanation to my each query. Which I mentioned below :-

Pickup or Drop-off: You can either drop off your pet at the cremation service or have it picked up from your house or veterinarian’s office by the service providers.

Paperwork & Type Selection: You will complete a brief consent form and select the cremation type.

Cremation: A chamber is gently filled with your pet. Depending on size, the procedure takes one to three hours.

Return of Ashes (If Applicable): In an urn or in other simple container, ashes are typically returned within 3–7 days.

What Is the Cost of Pet Cremation? Averages for the US, UK, Canada, and India

Cost is something we cannot overlook, even if it seems harsh, especially when you are already feeling very emotional. Based on my research and experience, the following is a rough idea:

In Delhi, I paid about $200 for Bruno’s mid-range cremation, which included the return of his ashes.

Pet Burial vs Pet Cremation – Which Is Better

When Bruno passed away, I found myself in a difficult position, that is in between the traditional option of burial and the more modern approach of cremation. My family even suggested me to bury him in our backyard. However, I have many questions in my mind like : Is it legal? What about the smell? Would I be able to bear the sight of that place every day?

Here is the detailed comparison between Pet burial and cremation with all pros and cons.

Pet Burial (Backyard or Pet Cemetery)

Pet Cremation :-

For me, cremation is a source of closure. I still keep the wooden urn that has Bruno’s ashes on my desk, as a constant reminder of our love.

What Happens to the Ashes After Pet Cremation?

After Bruno’s cremation, the cemetery sent me a tiny bag of ashes, sealed and bearing Bruno’s name. When you receive your pet’s ashes from the cemetery, it’s up to you whether you want to bury them, scatter them, or keep them with you.

These are the typical choices you can make, each offering a unique way to honor your pet’s memory

• If you decide to scatter them, you can scatter them in your backyard, park, or on mountain trails,where your pet plays most of the time, or you can consider scattering them in running water.
• If you decide to bury them, you can also bury them in your backyard, and after that, you can grow a tree over that part as a memorial. Personally, I chose this method after taking a small part of ashes for the memorial because I want to make an environment-conscious decision.  And growing plant over Bruno’s ashes gives satisfaction to my soul.
• With the remaining ashes, there are numerous ways to create a lasting memorial for your pet. Consider the following options to keep them close to you.

1. Urns

The ashes can be stored at home in a decorative pet urn. Many are made of eco-friendly materials, wood, or ceramic. On Amazon, you can get many paw-shaped urns, or you can even buy customized urns according to your pet.

2. Jewelry

Furthermore, the ashes can be transformed into memorial stones, jewelry, or glass artwork, providing a tangible way to keep your pet’s memory alive.

How To Chose A Pet Cremation Service

Let me assure you that not all pet cremation services are the same. Before deciding on the final resting place for Bruno, I visited two different services, each with its own unique approach and offerings.

Here is the detailed guide on how you can chose a perfect pet cremation service near you.

✅ Search on google “dog cremation service in [your city]” or “pet cremation near me.” And then you can check reviews and contact them or visit them.

In the above image google is showing me pet cremation service for Multnomah County, Now from here after reviewing their reviews and pricing, you can select best pet cremation service.

✅ Visit the facility is possible. Many pet cremation services permit tours of their premise. once visit the facility and then decide whether you will go with them or go with any other facility.

✅ Must Ask them following questions :-

• Do they offer cremation for individual pet?
• Does they return ashes in a urn?
• How much time does it take for pet cremation to complete?
• Can I attend the cremation?

I discovered a tiny, family-owned business. They treated Bruno as he was one of their own pet. That was the key difference.

Personal Advice: Always enquire about the contents. Some services have additional fees for home pickup, paw prints, or urns.

Is Pet Cremation Ethical and Safe?

“Isn’t cremation bad for the environment?” You may have this question in your mind. And the answer is “no”.

Is It Secure?

Yes, provided that it is carried out in a facility that has been certified. High-temperature furnaces are used in the procedure, and most crematoriums adhere to stringent regulations.

If you care about the environment, choose biodegradable urns. For a kinder, more environmentally friendly method, some businesses now even provide aquamation or water-based cremation.

Pet Cremation for Different Animals

I was shocked when I comes to know that pets other than dogs and cats can also be cremated. Almost any animal can be cremated. Below is the table for which animals cremation is possible.

Restoring Emotions After Pet Loss

Nobody gets you ready for this part. I would still reach for Bruno’s leash before a walk, even weeks after his cremation. It makes odd echoes.

This is what I found to be helpful:

• Discussing it (don’t keep it to yourself)

• Making a scrapbook or photo album

• Composing a farewell letter

• Eventually, volunteering at animal shelters.

Forgetting does not equate to healing. All you have to do is learn to smile when you think of them.

Common Questions Regarding Pet Cremation

Concluding Remarks from a Pet Parent to Another.

Losing a pet is like losing a part of yourself. It’s neither “just a dog” nor “just a cat.” This person made your world a little less lonely by waiting for you at the door and licking your tears.

Therefore, I hope this guide helped ease your journey if you’re currently going through a heartbreaking phase. Additionally, keep in mind this whether you decide on burial, cremation, or another option:

Even though they are no longer with you, they always remain in your heart.

❤️ Do you have a question or a personal story to share?

Tell me about your pet and let’s remember them together by leaving a comment below or sending me an email.