What Is Communal Pet Cremation?

Over the years, pets become members of the family, and when they pass, you’ll want to celebrate their life by providing a proper memorial. There are different ways to say goodbye and honor your pet. We’re going to explain what communal pet cremation is, along with the benefits and drawbacks.  

What Is Communal Pet Cremation?

Communal pet cremation involves cremating the remains of more than one animal simultaneously. The ashes of different animals will mix. Group cremation is a good option if you do not wish to get the ashes back and you’re looking for a more cost effective way to cremate your pet. Woman in white dress sitting on beach with dog

There are different services available to cremate your dog or cat. Cremation is one of the most popular ways to lay pets to rest. To help you decide, you must understand how communal cremation works.

What Happens During Communal Cremation for Pets?

Communal cremation involves putting multiple animals into our Aquamation machine simultaneously. The process of gentle water flow and temperature reduce the animal’s remains to bone, which are then turned into ash. 

Will You Get the Pet Ashes Back After Group Cremation?

No, retrieving your pet’s ashes after the communal cremation is not possible. Group cremation results in the mingling of several pets, therefore, owners do not receive ashes or an Urn. 

At Paws Into Grace, when we perform a communal cremation, we scatter the ashes respectfully at sea with help from our partner, Oceans of Love. The ceremony includes laying fresh flowers and ringing a captain’s bell to honor the beloved pets at their final resting place.

A beautiful image provided by Oceans of Love after they spread communal ashes provided by us, on September 11, 2022.

How Much Does Communal Cremation for Pets Cost?

Communal cremation for pets starts at $175, depending on the weight of your pet. Many choose to use communal cremation because it is a more cost-effective way to cremate your pet.

What Is the Difference Between Communal and Individual Cremation?

Individual cremation means your dog or cat will be cremated on their own, and the ashes you receive back will be theirs only. Consequently, you can get the ashes back to keep in an urn or to spread. 

What Are the Benefits of Communal Pet Cremation?

Cremation is a loving and dignified way of caring for a pet’s remains. There are different reasons why you should consider group cremation once your pet dies.

  • Cost-effective option: Group cremation is the most cost effect way to cremate your pet at Paws into Grace. 
  • Peacefully laid at sea: Because of our partnership with Oceans of Love, you can ensure your pet’s ashes will be peacefully and respectfully spread at sea.
  • Pet owners: This is a great option for pet owners who don’t have the ability or transportation to spread their pet’s ashes at sea but wish to do so. 

A caring woman attentively pets a dog with a stethoscopeWhat Are the Disadvantages of Pet Group Cremation?

Impersonal feeling: Group cremation combines the ashes of different animals. Hence, the process may feel impersonal to some people. 

No Urn to display at home: Unlike individual cremation, your pet will be cremated with others and you won’t receive the ashes after the procedure, so there will be no need for an urn.

However, there are many ways to remember your pet without an Urn, such as a memorial necklace or custom ornament with you pet’s name.  

Related Questions

Can I Make Memorial Items With My Pet’s Ashes After Communal Cremation?

Unfortunately, with communal cremation you will not receive the ashes back from your pet. If you would like a paw print paperweight or ashes for a necklace or urn, opting for individual cremation would be a better option.

Do I receive anything back if I choose Communal Cremation?

Yes, you will receive a picture of the event and GPS coordinates from where your pet’s ashes were spread. These come from our partner, Oceans of Love. 

How Do I Bring My Pet’s Body to be cremated?

You can bring your pet’s body to our office in Escondido, CA, or we can arrange a transport for you. We want to help ease the burden and pain of handling such a delicate matter, so you may choose whichever works best for your situation.

Conclusion

Losing pets can be extremely painful. Communal pet cremation is an excellent alternative to make the situation easier and more affordable. When it’s time to say goodbye to your pet best friend, you can show one last act of love and appreciation by providing proper cremation.

Dr. Benson started Paws into Grace in 2007. She wanted to give pets and their parents a beautiful last encounter that didn't have to be in an unfamiliar office where pets were often frightened. The empathy she shows each family creates a lasting impression on them. In her free time, Dr. Benson enjoys running and spending time with her family, dogs, cats, and chickens.

  

Testimonials

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who... read more

Renee C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him... read more

Diane C.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but... read more

Terry A.

Renee C.

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who came out to the house. She was so understanding and supportive. They were all so helpful, understanding and nice. My girl got to stay at home and say goodbye in the backyard (a hummingbird flew over and it seemed like a good sign too). So glad I didn't have to take her to a cold vet office.

Diane C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him with more medications which would make him even more miserable. I called and spoke to a very kind lady who was patient as I cried through making an appointment. We made an appointment for 1:30pm. Dr. Toni arrived. She was very kind, explained everything to us and gave us the time to be with our boy after the first shot. He wasn't relaxing enough so she gave him a second shot. We stayed with him throughout the entire process and I carried him to her car in the end. It was a very difficult decision but knowing that our boy is not in pain, gives us some peace. We are thankful to Dr. Toni for her kindness and compassion. They will arrange the cremation for us. Since we are in a pandemic, we had our masks on and said goodbye to our boy in our garden.

Terry A.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but before she attached the IV. We were relieved that we made the decision to let her go to doggy heaven at home. It was a tranquil and serene passing for her, and it very much aids us in the grieving and healing process knowing that she passed away so peacefully. Based on the grace and compassion Dr. Brown demonstrated on one of the most awful days of our lives we would not hesitate to recommend Paws Into Grace for others facing this very painful time.
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