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Aftercare

picture of dog

Private Cremation

Ashes returned in an urn

handcarved-rosewood-urn

Private cremation ensures your beloved pet is cremated individually, allowing their ashes to be returned to you in an urn of your choosing. This creates a lasting memorial that can be kept at home, buried in a special location, or scattered in a place that held meaning for you and your pet. The cremation is performed at a licensed facility selected for their exceptional care and dedication—a place trusted for the most precious of goodbyes.  

Ashes are returned in a wooden urn with a brass nameplate.

Cremation

Ashes are not returned

Communal cremation offers a respectful option at a lower cost. Your pet will be cremated alongside other beloved companions, and their combined ashes will be scattered with care across crematorium grounds or another dignified location. Many find comfort in knowing their pet becomes part of a collective memorial to the bond between pets and their families.

Home Burial

Some families prefer to bury their pet at home in a cherished spot. While this option provides a close memorial, it requires careful consideration of environmental factors and local regulations. If choosing home burial, verify it's permitted in your area and what the requirements are.  Check for underground utilities, and select a location with thoughtful planning for the future. The grave should be 3-5 feet deep with at least three feet of soil covering your pet, who can be wrapped in biodegradable material such as a favorite blanket or t-shirt. Remember that burial should occur within 48 hours, and medications in your pet's system could potentially harm wildlife.

Cemetary Burial

Pet cemeteries offer dedicated grounds where your companion can be laid to rest with a permanent marker, providing a special place to visit and remember. These serene settings create a dignified final resting place with various options for memorialization. If this option feels right for your family, arrangements should be made with the cemetery before the appointment. Traditional cemetery services can include a ceremony, casket, headstone, and permanent grave plot, with costs typically starting around $1,500 depending on your location and chosen services.

Clay Paw Print

clay-paw-print

The unique impression of your pet's paw, carefully preserved in clay, creates a lasting and personal keepsake. This special memento captures something distinctly individual about your companion—the very print that walked alongside you through life's journey. Many find this tangible reminder brings both comfort and a sense of continued connection during the grieving process.

Lock of Hair

Keepsake

A small lock of your pet's fur can serve as a tender, tangible connection to your companion. This simple memento, offered complimentary, provides comfort for many families as they navigate their grief journey, allowing you to maintain a physical reminder of your beloved pet's presence in your life.
 

Schedule an Appointment

Find a time that works for you and choose cremation and keepsake options. 

©2023 by Dr. Danielle Chapman. All rights reserved.

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