Cremation: How to pay tribute to your pet

Whether your companion is a dog, a cat, a rat, or a horse, there are several options available to you to pay tribute to your pet after its death.

First of all, if you've just lost a loved one, I'm sorry. Just because your pet is an animal doesn't make your loss any less real. I lost my pet rats (yes, you read that right) a few years ago and it was incredibly painful. My thoughts are with you.

Now let's see how to honor the lives of your little ones by going over the different possibilities available to you.

Pet Cremation Services

During the cremation process, the deceased pet's body will be placed in a cremation chamber and subjected to temperatures ranging from 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on its weight, this process can take up to a few hours.

Heat and steam reduce organic matter to dust and dried bones, which are then pulverized to form ash with a sandy texture.

You will be able to choose from the following options if you wish to use this service:

Private cremation

In a private cremation, only one animal is placed in the cremation chamber. The ashes produced are therefore strictly those of the animal in question. This is the option to choose if you want to receive your pet's ashes.

Communal cremation

In communal cremation, several animals are placed in the same room at the same time. You may choose this option for ecological or economic reasons.

Separate cremation

This option is not offered by all companies, but it is a good alternative when available. Several animals are placed in the chamber, but are separated from each other by a separator. The ashes produced are therefore separated at the end of the process and can be recovered.

How much does it cost to cremate a pet?

The cost of cremation varies depending on the option you choose and the weight of your pet. Private cremation with return of ashes is more expensive than communal cremation.

For a pet, the cost ranges from $50 to $350, depending on the cremation company. For a horse, the cost is higher, reaching several thousand dollars.

This does not include costs related to euthanasia.

Why choose cremation?

This service, offered through your veterinarian, can save you the hassle of burial, for example.

Indeed, if you choose burial, be aware that the body must be placed in such a way as to be inaccessible to wild animals, especially if the animal has been euthanized. A burial that does not meet the standards can attract wildlife to your land and expose it to the toxic product used during the euthanasia of your animal.

Each city has different regulations regarding pet burial, so you should consult them if this option is ever desired. Note that there are also pet cemeteries. Working with them could simplify the process.

Cremation remains, in my opinion, the simplest solution because generally, the veterinary team takes care of everything that is necessary. You just have to inform them of your choices regarding cremation and mention if you want a souvenir item. They will take care of the body after euthanasia and will be happy to contact the company for you.

Can I attend my pet's cremation?

Yes. Most companies offer this service. They usually have a room set aside for this purpose. Some people find that attending the cremation helps with the grieving process.

How to pay tribute to your pet after their death?

Scattering of ashes

Many people choose to distribute the ashes in a place that is meaningful to the pet. You still need to make sure your municipality allows this.

Some people may see this as an environmental concern or prefer to keep their pet's ashes close to them. They may instead choose one of the following alternatives.

Urn

At the veterinary clinic where I worked, when a client chose a private cremation for their pet, the cremation company provided a standard wooden urn to accompany the ashes. Alternatively, the client had the option to browse a catalog of different urns offered by the cremation company if they wished to pay extra for a more personalized urn.

Some people choose to bury their pet's urn or ashes. Cremation companies often also offer personalized headstones in their catalogs.

Jewelry

Many companies also offer jewelry that can hold your pet's ashes. This is a great alternative, as you can keep your pet with you at all times.

Impression of a paw on clay quote

A deceased pet's paw is gently pressed onto a clay disc. The resulting product is sent to the cremation company, who fires the clay and produces a beautiful keepsake in the color of your choice. This is a very popular option as it allows for customization.

A word about euthanasia of your pet

A discussion with your veterinarian will guide you toward the right choice for your pet's comfort. This decision is always very difficult to make, and you are not alone. When the time comes, you will go to the vet with your friend's bed, blanket, toy, and favorite treats—in short, anything that could make their final moments joyful.

Every veterinarian has their own euthanasia protocol. Typically, lethal injection involves an overdose of anesthetic. First, the veterinary team will place a catheter in your pet's leg to ensure quick and painless intravenous access.

Some veterinarians believe that administering a sedative may be appropriate before the final injection, the goal being for the animal to leave calmly.

Then the lethal injection is given, and its effect is rapid. The animal will breathe its last in peace.

If your pet is the type who hates the vet, some clinics offer home euthanasia, allowing your pet to pass away in the comfort of your own home.

In any case, every euthanasia is difficult and know that all veterinary teams will be with you in this tragic moment and will give you all the time necessary for your goodbyes.

They will guide you through the euthanasia process and assist you in the choices to be made following the death of your companion. Moreover, if your pet were to die at home, your veterinarian would always be a resource to assist you in the afterlife process.

And we're here for you. Feel free to write to us if you feel like it.

I am happy to answer your questions and I wish you many more quality times with your faithful companions!