Pets will eventually pass away due to illnesses or old age, and you must decide what to do next. When this happens, pet owners wonder whether Veterinarians do pet cremation or not. For this article, we’re going to discuss who will handle the cremation of your beloved pet.
Do Veterinarians Do Pet Cremation?
Yes, veterinarians and staff under the careful supervision of veterinarians perform the cremation process. Some facilities, including Paws Into Grace, offer complete services, from in-home euthanasia to memorial services.
A Veterinarian’s main role is to keep pets healthy and well. However, there are others who also specialize in handling end–of–life matters. If you want to ensure your dog or cat will be treated with respect and dignity, especially after euthanasia, it’s best to work with a trusted aftercare cremation facility.
What Does a Veterinarian Do for Pet Cremation?
A Veterinarian knows how an animal’s body works. They have the knowledge to determine what temperatures and elements to use during the cremation process. Unlike other traditional fire-based cremation facilities, our veterinarians and staff are experts in Aquamation, a water- based cremation. Paws into Grace offers water-based cremation for individual cremation and communal cremation.
Individual Cremation
You may opt for an individual cremation instead of a communal cremation if you wish to have your pets ashes returned. Our individual pet cremation services start at $275, depending on the weight of your pet.
- Our Veterinarians and staff will focus on preparing your pet for cremation. They will get a clay paw print and fur clipping. Additionally, you may choose from additional memorial items.
- They will begin the Aquamation process and ensure your pets ashes are returned to you, usually within 2 weeks.
Communal Cremation
Communal cremation is a great option if you’re looking for a more economical option. At Paws Into Grace, communal cremation starts at $175, depending on the weight of your pet.
- For this type of cremation, our vets will place multiple animals into our Aquamation machine.
- Since there are several animals, you won’t be able to retrieve your pet’s ashes. Instead, our team will scatter the ashes respectfully at sea with the help of our partner, Oceans of Love.
Aquamation
If you choose Paws into Grace for your individual or communal cremation, our team will perform the cremation process with Aquamation. Aquamation only consumes around 10% of the energy required for flame cremations, as it doesn’t emit greenhouse gases.
- The process of Aquamation is performed by combining temperature, gentle water flow, and alkalinity from potassium hydroxide to break down organic material.
- The process takes about 19 hours from start to finish, and afterwards, only bones and teeth remain.
- The remains are then turned to ashes and returned to the family, if they have chosen individual cremation or spread at sea if communal cremation has been chosen.
Why Should You Choose a Cremation Facility with experienced Veterinarians on staff?
Veterinarians Are Compassionate
They prioritize the well-being of an animal. Even at the end of life, vets are concerned both for the pets and their owners.
For example, Dr. Elizabeth Benson, DVM, started Paws Into Grace in 2007 because of her experience with late-night emergency veterinary hospital rooms. She believes vets must offer peaceful transitions for animals. Now, she leads a team of Veterinarians and support staff in cremating pets.
Veterinarians Are Competent and Qualified
Veterinarians are problem-solvers, methodical, and analytical. Among those in the animal cremation industry, they are the most knowledgeable about what happens in an animal’s body, whether it is dead or alive. They have valuable information, equipment, and techniques that guarantee your pets will be in good hands.
You may have heightened emotions due to your pet’s passing, and our vets are qualified to communicate your options for cremation. Despite the technicalities, vets have a general concern for you and your pet’s welfare.
Who Can Do Pet Cremation Other Than Vets?
Some cremation services have designated technicians who will handle the process. This is why it’s vital that you check with your service provider if they have a team of veterinarians.
We have dedicated vets who will oversee and perform the cremation process. We also have a support team that will guide you in deciding what to do after the cremation or if you need help in the grieving process.
Related Questions
Who Will Transport My Pet’s Body to and From the Cremation Facility?
You can either bring your pet to our office in Escondido, CA, or we can arrange transportation for your convenience. We aim to ease the pain of this challenging time, so we have trained drivers who can transport your pet gently and respectfully.
How Much Does Cremation Cost?
The cost of cremating pets depends on the type, although it starts at $275. Our reception team can discuss payment options, including using CareCredit for cremation.
What Else Can Pet Cremation Facilities Offer?
Most pet cremation facilities also offer memorial items. For Paws Into Grace, we also have grief counseling with the help of our certified pet loss grief support specialists. Whether through a call or a personal session, they will guide you on the path toward healing, acceptance, and contentment.
Conclusion
Veterinarians and their trained staff can do pet cremation, as they have training and experience handling the delicate matters of aftercare. Paws Into Grace consists of kindhearted veterinarians and an empathetic support team. In this way, you can let your pet pass on in a loving and caring environment.
