Our furry friends become a vital part of our life; they become our family and a source of comfort. Even though we know we will outlive them, losing a dog is heartbreaking. As a result, we mourn and strive to appreciate the joy they bring into our lives. Most often, in their absence we strive to get the solace by just looking at their favorite cute dog toys and costumes. While grieving is a process, deciding what to do with our dog’s remains and how much does it cost to cremate a dog when they’re gone can be difficult, thus, planning can help. Depending on their religious convictions, financial situation and personal preference, one can either cremate or bury their dog.
What is Pet Cremation?
Following the death of a much-loved family pet, the most frequent method is pet cremation. It allows one to get the ashes if they desire to preserve them in memory of their furry friend and visit their pet’s remains whenever they want without having to drive to a pet cemetery. A pet crematorium is the same as a traditional human cremation and is more cost-effective than burials.
Although many crematoriums handle human and animal cremations, some do animal cremation services specifically. Pets cremation is a better alternative if one lives in an area with municipal rules against it or lacks property. A private pet crematory can assist you in caring for your beloved pet. Most veterinarians can also help you make plans. There are a variety of unique and elegant amenities for preserving pet remains or holding a memorial.
Types of Dog Cremation Methods
Before knowing the cost to cremate a dog, let us know the types of cremation for dogs:
#1 Collective Cremation
In this type, a pet is cremated with other animals. You have two options. One options is having the crematory staff scatter the remains on the facility ground or memorial area and then send you a cremation certificate with the pet’s name and cremation date. Another option is your asking them to return the dog ashes to you for final disposition.
#2 Private/Individual Cremation
These types of dog cremation services allows your pet to be cremated in a private chamber. This guarantees that the ashes you receive are those of your pet alone. You may be able to supply an urn, box, or other enclosed container to your crematorium. However, if the crematorium does not accept pet urns or you are still seeking the appropriate final resting place for your pet, the remains will most likely be put in a plastic bag and returned to you.
#3 Semi-Private (Partitioned) Cremation
Some facilities allow you to have your pet cremated alongside other animals in a separate area. To put it another way, the pets are kept apart. This sort of cremation is referred to as “individual” by some facilities, so make sure you understand what you’re getting. The facility will do everything possible to keep your pet’s ashes separate, but they may mix with those of another pet. Cremation in this manner is often less expensive than cremation in a private setting.
#4 Witness Cremations
This service allows pet owners to observe the cremation procedure from a designated viewing area. Some people pick this option to aid with their mourning process because it allows them to see that their beloved pet is being treated with respect.
How Much Does it Cost to Cremate a Dog?
The dog cremation cost varies depending on the size and weight of the animal, as well as the type of cremation service you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 to have your dog cremated. If you are interested in having your dog’s ashes returned to you, there may be an additional fee for this service. Following are the average cost of cremations for your dog and know how much does it cost to cremate a dog.
#1 Communal Pet Cremation Cost
This type of pet cremation cost would be the lightest on your pocket if you have a tight budget or worrying how much does it cost to cremate a dog. On average, communal pet cremation would cost $30-$70.
#2 Individual Pet Cremation Cost
The exact dog cremation price varies in different pet crematories. The price will be higher if you have a larger pet. The cost of private cremation for dogs in the weight range of a pet will be as follows:
- 1-30lbs like small dogs such as Pomeranians and American Cocker Spaniels; Rabbits, birds, rats, turtles, hamsters, and snakes might cost from $150 to $175.
- 30-60lbs like medium size dogs such as Australian Shepherds, Beagles, and Bull Terriers might cost around $200.
- 91-120lbs like Sheep, Goats, and Potbellied pigs; large dogs like Bernese Mountain dog, Kuvasz, and Carpathian Shepherd dog costs around $250.
- Over 120lbs, like very large dogs such as King Shepherd, Saint Bernards, and Akita; Horses, Cows, Llamas, and Alpacas, the cost varies.
#3 Witness Cremation Cost
There is an extra charge, i.e, cremation witness fee which typically ranges from $25 to $100.
Pet Cremation Alternatives
#1 Disposal of Pet Remains by a Veterinary Practitioner
Most veterinarians have the necessary equipment to dispose of animal remains properly. You aren’t involved in any details when your veterinarian handles disposal. While this is a feasible alternative, many individuals think it makes saying goodbye too sudden, which can impede grief healing. Making arrangements for your pet’s cremation or burial can often be enough to begin the healing process.
#2 Having your Pet’s Body Donated to Science
It is possible to donate your pet’s body to science. Several Humane Society branches, as well as various institutions and veterinary colleges, provide this service. The schemes are similar to those for organ donation, with students accessing studies conducted on deceased pets. Animals are frequently employed in anatomical research. The animal is incinerated once the research is over. Contact local schools to participate in a donation scheme.
They can assist you with the paperwork and provide specific instructions for when the time comes. When you bring your pet in for its final checkup, tell your vet about your plans and include any necessary documents. Typically, the donor must arrange with the school to receive the animal.
#3 Home Burials
If you live in an area with no municipal regulations against it and have a backyard or sufficient space to lay your beloved pet to rest, then you could choose this alternative. You could hold a proper memorial and visit your pet’s resting place whenever possible.
#4 Cemetery for Animals
When home burial isn’t possible, pet cemeteries become more popular as permanent resting places. Pet cemeteries frequently include complete pet burial and cremation services along with pet memorial services facilities. You can also get a plot, a casket, and a grave marker for your furry friend. Most pet cemeteries will assist you in transporting your pet’s body from its final resting place. Many will also provide in-home veterinarian services if you euthanize your pet. Catering services for memorials are available for an extra price at full-service pet cemeteries.
While pet cremations have become increasingly famous due to public demands, some pet crematories exploit bereaved owners and give inadequate services, while others treat pets with dignity and respect.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering whether or not pet cremation is right for you, contact local veterinarian offices and inquire about the crematories they utilize. Contact those crematories to see how much to cremate a dog and whether you feel safe committing your pet’s final disposition to them. Pet cremation is, in the end, a wonderful way to say goodbye to your pet. However, the procedure must be carried out with caution and attention to detail. Remember that there is no right or wrong method of saying goodbye to your adored pet.