What are my options - FAQ?

What is the cost for a pet funeral/burial?

The costs of a pet funeral & burial vary depending upon the method of burial (inground or aboveground), the type of burial (individual or communal), the type of casket and other amenities preferred. There are many options available and any IAPC member cemetery & funeral home is willing to explain procedures and quote prices by telephone.

What is the cost of cremation?

While costs vary from facility to facility, any IAPC member will quote prices via telephone. Because facilities offer many different types of services, it is best to call or visit the cemetery before making a selection.

Is a casket required for cremation?

A casket is not required for cremation. If a casket is used it must be biodegradable: made of wood without metal fasteners or heavy cardboard. Many pet caskets are made of polystyrene (plastic) or fiberglass, these will not be acceptable for cremation processing.

Is there a memorial service available for cremation?

Yes, arrangements can be made with the pet cemetery/funeral home to allow viewing and/or a memorial service prior to cremation.

Can a cremation be witnessed by the pet owner?

Many pet crematory operators allow for the cremation to be attended. There may be additional fees for this service. Because of schedules special appointments may be required.

Is embalming necessary?

No. Embalming is a process that preserves the body and is not necessary for cremation. It is an option that some cemeteries provide and is useful in cases where a body is to be held for an extended period of time. Most cemeteries will hold the pet's body in cold storage and this can accomplish some of the benefits of embalming.

Can I be positive that I have my pet's cremains?

Each pet cemetery has it's own method for identification of pet upon receipt at the cemetery. If the pet is removed from a veterinary hospital the clinic will normally affix some sort of identification tag to the container holding the pet or to the pet itself. During the cremation process the identification tag is placed near the crematory allowing positive identification by the crematory operator at all times. Most crematories issue a certificate verifying that the pet was cremated at their facility on a given date.

What is an Urn?

An urn is a receptacle specially made to hold the cremated remains (cremains). Urns are made in many styles and materials.

What is a niche?

A niche is a recessed compartment used for the inurnment of cremains. The niche is usually sealed with a protective front such as bronze, marble, granite, wood or glass.

What is a columbarium?

A columbarium is an arrangement for niches erected for the sole purpose of accepting cremains which are usually contained in urns. A columbarium can be indoors or out.

What is a cremation or scatter garden?

A cremation or scatter garden is a special section of land, set aside for the burial or scattering of cremains.

Is it legal to scatter cremains?

Because cremation reduces a body basically to the calcium contained in the bones, most areas have no restrictions. When in doubt, contact your local authorities.

What is a crypt?

A crypt is a space designed to hold a deceased body, that has been placed in a casket. It is a larger version of a niche and does not require the body to be cremated. A group of crypts is called a mausoleum. A crypt or mausoleum is referred to as "aboveground" burial where in-ground burial is impossible due to a high water table or rocky surface conditions.

(FAQ courtesy of International Association of Pet Cemeteries)