The loss of a loved one can be the most devastating challenge a person ever faces. While this is certainly the case of family members and life-long friends, this is no less true when the lost loved one is a pet. Pets are companions, confidants, and oftentimes best friends who are considered part of the family. Therefore, dealing with their loss can be one of the most painful things a person faces. Unfortunately, there is not a great deal of information readily available regarding the choices a pet owner has when the veterinarian suggests that euthanizing the beloved pet is the most compassionate course of action. But the options are out there, and it’s important for pet owners to understand them.
One option when a pet is euthanized is what is called “private pet cremation,” which generally costs under $350 and is handled by a crematorium that works in conjunction with the veterinarian. In a private cremation, only that one pet is reduced to ashes which allow the remains, also called cremains, to the owner. Some crematories allow the owner or family members to be present in order to view the cremation, but this is not available at all of them. Usually, the cremains are placed inside a plastic bag which is then set inside some sort of vessel for transporting them. An ideal choice for this receptacle is a pet urn, which can take the form of anything from a simple wooden box to a beautiful, intricate work of art that will house the ashes, either for permanent display or later burial. The plastic bag is used to keep the remains secure in case the vessel in which they are held is dropped or damaged in some way, but eventually, the bag is no longer needed for transport, and the ashes are placed by themselves inside the urn. Pet owners who struggle with their loss often prefer that the veterinarian or a friend transfer the ashes into the urn because it can often be an emotionally demanding task.
Another option when a pet is euthanized is an “individual cremation” which is similar to a private cremation in that the pet owner is still assured of getting his, and only his, pet’s remains returned to him. But it differs from a private cremation in that other pets are being cremated at the same time. They are each separated though, which allows each owner to receive only the appropriate remains. Because other animals are being cremated at the same time, the cost is lower and generally runs between $75 and $200.
The cheapest option for pet cremation is called “mass cremation” in which multiple pets are cremated together at the same time, and the ashes are not available to be returned to the owner. This form of cremation can be done anywhere from $30 to $100 which is great for people who don’t wish to spend much money but a poor option for those who wish to keep, scatter, or bury their pets’ remains.
Many pet owners grieving the loss of their beloved companions find comfort in choosing a pet urn to use in either a private or individual cremation. With the amazing array of choices in styles, materials, colors, and designs – including even custom designed and created pieces that are considered true works of art — many find that the choice of an appropriate urn to hold the ashes to be one of the most special ways for them to memorialize the vital role that pet had in the owner’s life.
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