# What You Should Know About Pet Cremation

URL: https://buzzle.com/animals-pets/pet-cremation
Category: Animals & Pets
Published: 2021-01-20T09:38:16
Updated: 2026-08-19T03:32:43
Image: https://buzzle.com/_astro/pet-cremation.BAkln3NB_1BC5kL.webp
**Losing a pet is a tragic experience for any pet parent,** but sadly, it is part of owning an animal. It might not be a pleasant thing to plan for, but making pet cremation preparations in advance will give you **one less stressful decision to make during the mourning period.** If you’ve never used a pet cremation service before, **we’ve put together this post to help you understand how they work and what to expect.** Keep reading to find out how to prepare for pet cremation and say goodbye to your furry friend in a respectful way.

## Where can you get a pet cremation?

Depending on where you’re located, **there are different ways to go about getting a pet cremation.** If you reside in a large city or metropolitan area, you should be able to find a **company that specializes in the cremation of dogs, cats, and other pets.** For example, if you live in Atlanta, **[Paws, Whiskers, and Wags](https://pawswhiskersandwags.com)** is a local business that performs these services. If you live in a rural area where these companies don’t typically operate, **you should contact your [veterinarian](https://buzzle.com/animals-pets/pet-clinic) or local animal shelter.** While they won’t be able to perform the services themselves, they should know where to refer you.

## How much does pet cremation cost?

It depends on a few important factors, like the weight and species of your pet. **The smaller your pet is, the less you’ll have to pay.** Also, **domestic animals (like dogs and cats) will be cheaper** than horses and other large pets. Something else to consider is if you want a communal or private cremation. **With communal cremation, your pet is placed with other animals during the cremation process.** Since there are multiple animals involved, you will not be able to retrieve your pet’s ashes. On the other hand, a private option ensures that your pet is the only one in the chamber, so **you will receive an urn or other container with your animal’s remains.** As you might expect, private cremations are pricier than communal ones. All things considered, **you can expect to pay around $75 to $300** for a pet cremation if you have a dog or cat.

## What should you do with the ashes?

**It’s really a matter of personal preference.** Some families choose to display their dog or cat’s ashes in an urn in their home. Others scatter their animal’s remains in a place that their pet loved. **There are even some [pet shops](https://buzzle.com/animals-pets/pet-shop) and online companies that can take some of your pet’s ashes and incorporate them into a piece of jewelry.** 

## Is cremation the only option when a pet dies?

**No, you don’t have to cremate your pet** if you don’t feel comfortable with it. Many people prefer to bury their animals or ask their veterinarian to manage that aspect on their behalf. **Again, it’s a matter for you and your family to decide.**  With a bit of advanced planning, **you can understand the options you have for pet cremation.** It isn’t pleasant, but being prepared can **remove a bit of stress from your life** in a difficult time. For more pet ownership tips and resources, [**check out the Buzzle blog.**](https://buzzle.com/)