Understanding the Different Types of Pet Cremation

When it comes time for your beloved pet to cross the rainbow bridge, it’s nothing short of heartbreaking. Just like any other member of the family, you want to give them the honor and dignity they deserve as they pass from this life. 

Here at Pet Passages, we offer three different types of pet cremation services and we’re here to help you decide which option is best for you and your family. Continue reading to learn more about each option and some tips on how to make the right choice for your pet when the time comes.

Communal Cremation

During a communal cremation, the bodies of several pets are put in the crematory together, with no partitions to separate them. Because the bodies aren’t separated, there’s no way to separate the ashes of each pet, so you won’t receive any back once the cremation is finished. 

When you choose a communal cremation, the ashes of all the pets are respectfully scattered outside. 

Semi-Private Cremation

When you choose a semi-private cremation, your pet will be placed in the crematory with other animals, however, each pet will be separated using a stainless steel partition. This keeps each pet’s ashes apart, so they can be returned to you once the cremation is finished. 

Truly Private Cremation

Finally, during a truly private cremation, your pet is placed in the crematory alone and cremated privately. Just as with a semi-private cremation, your pet’s ashes will be returned to you after the cremation is complete.

How Pet Passages Tracks Your Pet’s Ashes

We understand how critical it is that each pet parent receives the correct ashes after their pet passes away. When you choose a semi-private or truly private cremation, we will give your pet a stainless steel disk with a unique number that allows for pet identification before and after cremation. With this system in place, you can have peace of mind that you’ll receive your pet’s ashes to memorialize.

This pet identification tracking system works with our state-of-the-art software system so you can also see real-time information and status updates about your pet while they’re in our care.

How to Choose Between the Different Types of Pet Cremation

Now that you know more about each cremation type we offer, there are a few questions you can ask yourself as you decide which one to choose for your pet. 

Do You Want to Receive Your Pet’s Ashes?

If so, choose between a semi-private or truly private cremation. 

Is Cost a Concern?

Communal cremation is the lowest-cost cremation option because the ashes aren’t returned to you. However, a semi-private cremation is the cheapest option if receiving your pet’s ashes is important to you. 

Are You Thinking Beyond the Current Moment?

When a pet passes, it’s an understandably emotional time and you don’t want to rush into a decision you might regret later. Before choosing a communal cremation, take a moment to think about whether you might want your pet’s ashes a few weeks or months from now. 

If there’s even a chance that you might, opt for a semi-private or truly private cremation and decide what to do with the ashes once the pain isn’t quite so fresh.

Here to Help You During This Difficult Time

We know that choosing between the different types of pet cremation is just one of the many decisions you’ll have to make at this difficult time. We’re here to help lighten the load for you. If you need assistance with the passing of your pet or you’re looking for ways to memorialize your beloved companion, find your local Pet Passages location here.