Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Cremation

When it comes time to say goodbye to your pet, it can feel like you’re facing a lot of unknowns. Pet Passages is here to help you through the process every step of the way. Below, we’ve compiled some of our most frequently asked pet cremation questions so you have a better idea of what to expect. We hope this helps you feel more confident that you’re making the right choices to honor your beloved pet’s memory.

Should I Choose Cremation or Burial for My Pet?

Whether you decide to cremate or bury your pet is a personal decision that you should discuss with your family. Many pet parents choose cremation so they can keep their pet’s ashes close to them forever, even if they eventually move. If you decide to bury your pet, check your local state laws for pet burial requirements. 

Is Pet Cremation a Popular Option?

Yes, pet cremation has continued to grow in popularity over the years because it’s an environmentally friendly choice, it’s cost-effective, and it allows you to keep your pet’s ashes so you can memorialize them in a meaningful way. 

What Is the Difference Between a Private and Communal Cremation?

With a private cremation, your pet is placed in the crematory alone and cremated privately. During a communal cremation, on the other hand, the bodies of several pets are placed in the crematory together. 

Pet Passages also offers a semi-private cremation (this is what most other providers call “individual” cremation), where your pet will be placed in the crematory with other animals, but will remain separated with a stainless steel partition so their ashes are kept apart. 

You can learn more about the different types of pet cremation we offer to help you make the right decision for your pet. 

How Long Will It Take to Receive My Pet’s Remains?

We pride ourselves on short turnaround times and will return your pet’s ashes to you as quickly as possible. In fact, Pet Passages guarantees that your pet’s cremated remains will be returned within 72 business hours. 

How Do I Know I’ll Receive the Correct Ashes?

We understand how important it is that each pet parent receives the correct remains after their beloved pet passes away. When you choose a semi-private or private cremation, your pet will be assigned a stainless steel medallion with a unique number that allows for pet identification before and after the cremation. 

That pet identification number works with our software tracking system so pet parents can see real-time status updates about their pets while in our care. 

Is an Urn Required When Choosing Pet Cremation?

While urns are not required, many of the pet parents we work with prefer to choose a memorial urn to hold their pet’s remains. We offer a selection of memorialization options including traditional urns, jewelry, keepsake items, and more so you can honor your pet in a way that feels right to you. 

What Happens if My Pet Passes Away at Home?

If a pet dies at home, we can come pick them up and bring them to our facilities, if you choose. Simply contact your local Pet Passages office to coordinate a time that works best for you. 

Here to Answer Any of Your Questions

We hope you have found these frequently asked pet cremation questions helpful. If you have any additional questions, we are more than happy to answer them for you and help you through this difficult time. If you’d like to learn more about our cremation services, please don’t hesitate to call your local Pet Passages office today.