Pet Aftercare Options | Cremation, Burial, and Memorial Choices
Understanding Pet Aftercare Options
When a beloved pet passes away, one of the hardest decisions families face is choosing how to care for their remains. Today, there are many pet aftercare options that allow families to say goodbye in a way that feels respectful and meaningful. From cremation to burial and even more unique memorials, the right choice is the one that brings you comfort.
Pet Cremation: Private vs. Shared
Cremation is one of the most common aftercare choices for families. There are two main types:
Private Cremation – Your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to you in an urn or container. This option offers closure and the ability to keep, bury, or scatter your pet’s ashes in a special place.
Shared Cremation – Multiple pets are cremated together, and ashes are not returned. This is a more affordable option while still ensuring dignity and respectful handling.
At Arkansas Pet Services, private cremation remains are returned within seven days, giving families peace of mind.
Urns and Memory Boxes
Many families choose to keep their pet’s ashes in an urn or memory box. Options include wood, ceramic, or other durable materials. Some urns feature plaques, nameplates, or photo frames for personalization. Memory boxes may also hold collars, toys, or other keepsakes, creating a tangible reminder of your pet’s life.
Pet Burial and Funerals
Another meaningful choice is burial. Families may hold a small funeral or gathering to say goodbye, either at home or in a pet cemetery.
Backyard or Home Burial – Comforting for families who want to keep their pet close, though it’s important to check local laws and environmental regulations first.
Pet Cemeteries – Many communities have dedicated cemeteries for traditional pet interment, allowing families to visit a marked gravesite.
Holding a ceremony, whether simple or formal, can help children and adults alike process grief.
Alternative Options: Taxidermy and Freeze-Drying
Though less common, some families explore taxidermy or freeze-drying as a way to preserve their pet. These services are not widely available, and many taxidermists do not work with companion animals. If you are considering this, your veterinarian may be able to help you find resources in your region.
Choosing What Feels Right
Every family grieves differently, and there is no single right way to honor a pet. Whether you choose cremation, burial, or another memorial option, what matters most is that the choice feels meaningful to you.
At Arkansas Pet Services, we are here to guide families and veterinarians through every step of pet aftercare. Our goal is to help you say goodbye with compassion, dignity, and peace of mind.