How to Decide Between Cremation and Burial for Your Pet
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most challenging things a pet parent will experience. When the time comes, you’re faced with making decisions about how to honor your companion’s life while in the midst of overwhelming grief. Cremation and burial are both meaningful, respectful aftercare options, and we are here to help you choose the path that feels right for you and your family.
Understanding Your Options
Pet Cremation
Cremation is a widely chosen option due to its simplicity, flexibility, and ability to maintain a lasting physical connection through your pet’s ashes. Working with Pet Passages, you can choose a truly private cremation, where your pet is the only one in the crematory, a semi-private cremation, where your pet is placed in the crematory with other animals, but kept separate using a stainless steel partition, or a communal cremation, where the bodies of several pets are put in the crematory together with no partitions to separate them. After a truly private or semi-private cremation, your pet’s ashes will be returned to you, and you can select a memorial item like an urn to store the ashes in your home.
Pet Burial
Burial is another popular option for laying a pet to rest. Most people who choose this bury their pet at home, but some towns have dedicated pet cemeteries you can explore. If you are considering a home burial, be aware that you may need to research local laws to determine if there are any restrictions or requirements you should be aware of.
Things to Consider When Deciding Between Cremation and Burial
Your Pet’s Size
The size of your pet can play a part in burial logistics. Larger pets may require more space if you’re thinking of a home burial. In that case, cremation may be a better option for your needs.
Practical Considerations
Your living situation can also help guide your decision. A home burial might not be feasible for renters or those who expect to move in the future. Cost is another factor to consider. Depending on the location and the services you choose, cremation may be the more affordable option.
Memorial Options for Each Choice
If You Choose Cremation
Pet parents who choose cremation often select personalized urns, jewelry, or other keepsake items to store their pet’s ashes. You may also choose to scatter the ashes in a place your pet loved, create a small memorial garden at home, or display a tribute to your pet on a shelf or mantel.
If You Choose Burial
When opting to bury your pet, you can set engraved markers, garden stones, photographs, or decorations at your beloved companion’s final resting place. If you choose to bury your pet in a cemetery, you can also create a special memorial space in your home as a daily reminder of the companionship you shared.
How to Know Which Option Is Right for You
The simple fact is that choosing between pet cremation and burial is a deeply personal decision. The most important thing you can do is think about what will bring you the most comfort in the long run. Some pet parents feel at peace knowing their pet rests in a dedicated place, while others cherish having their pet’s ashes with them wherever life may lead.
Pet Passages Is Here to Help
If you decide on cremation, the Pet Passages team can help every step of the way. We are here to tell you more about each of our cremation options, answer any questions you have, and ensure your pet is treated with the care they deserve. Find your nearest Pet Passages location to get the support you need during this difficult time.