Aftercare &
Cremation
Are you thinking of allowing us to take your pet into our care?
If you have, please rest assured that we will take really good care of them. At Dignipets we control every aspect of this part of the journey that your pet is making.
We will liaise with one of your local APPCC pet crematoria regarding all your aftercare wishes.
All the crematoria we work with have been chosen carefully by us based on the high standards that we have for our own pets.
What happens after a visit?
At the end of the euthanasia visit, your hospice vet can either transport your pet away for cremation or assist you in arranging a collection by crematorium staff directly. Our vets can help you decide on the best aftercare options for your situation.
The decision-making can feel overwhelming when you are already grieving. We will help you where possible, but do encourage you to consider your preferences regarding cremation or burial in advance if possible.
Out-of-hours it is more likely that your pet would be taken to the crematorium via the vet’s base. Very large pets (giant breeds) are usually transported directly to the crematorium if emergency calls allow.
We handle pets with dignity as though they were our own and will keep them safely in line with the legislation until the crematorium arrives for collection. They can always be wrapped in their own blankets if you wish, and it is permissible to include their favourite toys or teddy bears with them through this journey. These blankets and toys will be returned to you. If you have any questions or concerns, please tell us as soon as possible as we can help you arrange alternative forms of transport if preferred. *
For most pets there is no charge for vet transport after a euthanasia visit. We may charge if you request that your pet is taken directly to the crematorium after the visit; we are only able to do this if the vet’s diary and emergency visits allow. With giant breeds, booked in advance, we advise that you contact the crematorium directly to arrange collection by their staff.
If you have any queries about the cremation or have preferences you haven’t already told us about e.g., viewings, pawprints and fur clips you must tell us immediately.
*for example, collection from your home by crematorium staff, transport to the crematorium by animal ambulance or help to carry your pet into your own vehicle if you prefer to transport yourself.
We have advice and support if you would like to know more on:
- Education on options for the pet’s final arrangements (burial, cremation)
- Guidance on how to honour your pet’s life (also read our blog memorialising a pet)
Your pet’s remains
Care for your pet’s remains is a very personal decision. Every family is different, and the choice is yours alone to make. Three options are available when considering aftercare of your pet’s remains.
Private individual cremation: your pet will be cremated on their own and their ashes will be saved for you. Please allow for a week for this process. The vet will ask you at the time of the visit to choose a vessel for the ashes of your pet.
Please look at the following link to see the vessels available.
Communal cremation: your pet will be cremated with other pets and their ashes will be scattered on a field near the pet crematorium. This will take place within the week immediately following the cremation. Please let us know immediately if you change your mind and wish to arrange an individual cremation instead.
We can arrange to hold your pet for a little while longer if you need time to decide but please tell us as soon as possible when you know what is best for you and your family.
Home Burial
You may also choose to have a home burial ceremony for your pet.
Your hospice vet will advise you and discuss the various options with you at the time. In case you decide cremation; we always offer to take your pet into our care after home euthanasia in case you prefer not to bring your pet to the crematorium yourself. This is included in the cremation fee.
Bereavement support
All our hospice vets have vast experience with pet loss and bereavement and depending on your needs will help and support you with this difficult part of being a pet owner. We also have professionals (multidisciplinary team) we can refer to in case your needs surpass what we offer. This can be discussed at the time of a home visit. On every home euthanasia visit the vet will leave you with a pet loss support leaflet, and with our details.