The care of your pet's remains after death is one of the last things you wish to think about while dealing with your grief. The shock and sorrow you feel from losing a pet is difficult to bear. However, after the death of your dog, there is a decision you will need to make right away. "Aftercare" refers to how you would like your dog's remains handled. As difficult as this may be to address, it is something you must do.
If your dog's body is at your veterinarian's office, they might be willing to hold the body for a day or two while you make the decision. However, in some cases, there is not a way to store your dog's body and a decision must be made right away. After the handling of your pet's remains, you may also wish to have a small funeral or memorial service to say goodbye to your dear companion. Here are common aftercare options for your pet's remains:
Pet Cremation
Cremation involves the incineration of the body in a specially-designed furnace, thus reducing the remains to ashes and tiny bone fragments (called "cremains"). Most veterinary offices have a professional relationship with one or more pet crematories and can help you make these arrangements.
Private/Individual Cremation: By electing this type of cremation, you will be able to have your pet's ashes returned to you. To ensure that you are receiving your pet's (and only your pet's) ashes, choose a reputable company. Some people wish to be present to view the cremation, while others do not. However, choosing a crematory that allows viewing might give you peace of mind that your pet is truly being cremated alone. The basic cost of private pet cremation averages from $150 to $300, depending on the size of the pet.
Typically, pet crematories will return the cremains to you in a plastic bag that is inside a decorative tin or box. However, many offer a section of urns, ornamental boxes and figurines at an additional cost. However, you may find an urn or memorial box for your pet elsewhere, such as online. Some crematories will even transfer the cremains for you at no additional charge.
Mass/Community Cremation: If you do not wish to receive your pet's ashes back, you might choose this option. Community cremation means your pet will be cremated along with other animals, so obtaining the cremains is not an option. The typical cost is based upon weight and usually ranges from $50 to $150.
Pet Burial
If you do not like the idea of having your pet's body cremated or if you would prefer a grave site you can visit, then pet burial might be the best option for you.
Home Burial: If you wish to bury your dog on your own property, first make sure local laws allow it. Be sure to remove the body from non-biodegradable materials (like plastic) before burial. The body can be placed within a wooden or cardboard casket. The grave should be at least 3 feet deep and in a location that is not likely to erode or be dug up again. You can mark the grave site with a special headstone or plant a special tree or bush in that spot.
Pet Cemetery Burial: There are many companies that offer pet burial services in a pet cemetery. Some are even affiliated with pet crematories. This will allow you a specific place to visit your pet without the potential legal issues of home burial. In addition, if you move from your current home, you will not have to move your pet's remains or worry about leaving them behind. Pet burial services are able to offer a selection of headstones and other decorative touches for your pet's grave. Prices vary from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand, depending on the details.
To find a pet crematory or pet burial service in your area, visit the International Association Of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories, the Pet Loss Professionals Alliance, or talk to your veterinarian's office.
Memorializing Your Beloved Pet
There are a multitude of companies that offer special ways to memorialize your pet. Some involve the use of a lock of fur or a small amount of the cremains. Other personalize a decorative item using the pet's picture. These memorials include decorative stones, paperweights, ornaments, jewelry and much more. Here are just of few of the many options available:Art From Ashes: Beautifully artistic hand-crafted glass remembrances made with a small amount of a loved one's ashes
Life Gem: A certified, high-quality diamond created from a lock of hair or the cremated ashes of a loved one as a memorial
Peternity: A wide variety of jewely, custom art, keepsakes, urns and many other pet memorials
Everlife Memorials: Engraved plaques, personalized keepsakes, cremation jewelry, headstones, urns and much more
Remember Rocks: Decorative engraved rocks and stones to memorialize pets