Loving our dogs come with the inevitable and heartbreaking reality that one day we will need to usher them through their end of life. How can we honor this process, while also considering the high costs of end of life care and afterlife needs? Cremation is a popular and affordable option that also allows us to create mementos so our dogs can continue to be a part of our lives well beyond their living years. Read on to learn more about dog cremation and find the most personalized keepsake for your dog following cremation.
How Are Dogs Cremated?
Cremation for dogs is a process of placing a dog’s body in a cremation chamber. This chamber uses intense heat (up to 1800 degrees F) to reduce the organic matter to bone fragments and dust. Following the cremation process, the remains are pulverized to form a fine dust. Any non-organic matter is removed, like tags or collars. These objects are frequently returned with the cremation remains.
Who Cremates Dogs?
If you decide to proceed with the cremation process for you dog, there are a few options. Frequently, your veterinarian can provide a referral to a cremation business. This might be a reassuring choice, especially if you worked closely with your veternarian during your dog’s end of life care. Your veterinarian can provide information about the steps following your dog’s death, and transport your dog to the specified location for cremation. Prior to the transport, you can select a personalized urn to hold your dog’s ashes.
Urn Necklaces and Keychains for Dogs:
If you prefer direct communication with the people responsible for the cremation of your precious dog, you can find small businesses in your area that provide this service. Each business will offer information about their specific cremation process, the time frame for cremation and returning of your pet’s remains. Many of these local cremation services offer timely pick up services, which may be as fast as a few hours or same day. Businesses typically offer options for mementos, but you can also select your own to reflect your dog’s unique personality.
Urns for Dogs:
Cost for Dog Cremation
The cost for dog cremation depends on your location, as well as the size of your dog, according to the Animal Humane Society. Another decision we must make is to keep your dog’s ashes. Each cremation process may determine the best process for you and your dog.
Communal Cremation (no ashes returned) is the process of cremation with multiple other dogs. This process costs between $50 – $100 depending on your location and the size of your dog. This is a dignified and lower cost option, but you will not receive any ashes of your pet. You can still keep a token of your animal by cutting off a piece of their fur and placing it in an urn or keepsake.
Private Cremation (ashes returned) is a process of cremating your dog with no other animals. This services range from $150 – $450 and is based on your pet’s size. Although more costly, this process ensures you receive ashes of only your pet. Cremation services can return ashes within 1-2 weeks. When selecting a cremation service, you can ask about their affiliation with the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC). This organization accepts members that adhere to the most ethical standards in pet aftercare practices.
A Dignified Death
As your pet’s best friend, you may have specific ideas of how you want to honor them in the afterlife. While communal cremation may be appropriate to some, others may prefer private cremation services. There are burial options and ways to engage in eco-friendly afterlife practices, as described by PetMD. Whatever you choose for your beloved dog, the memory of them will never leave your side.
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