Dog cremation can provide a bit of comfort in this difficult time. It can help you gain closure while honoring the memory of your furry friend.
You may be unsure of how to organise these arrangements for your dog, or what you need to decide on.
This guide will give you all the information you need to know about cremating a dog. This will include the process, what options are available, the costs, different types urns available, and choosing a reputable provider.
The Cremation Process for Dogs: What’s Involved?
It’s normal for people to be curious about details of the pet cremation process.
Depending on the available facilities in your area, your pet might be cremated in a regular crematorium or one specifically intended for pets.
The Crematorium
Cremating a pet is pretty much the same as the human cremation process.
They will be placed in a cremation chamber and subjected to intense temperatures of at least 1400 – 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.
This reduces the organic matter down to ash and bone. The process takes up to around two hours, depending on the size of your dog.
How much ashes will you receive?
Many people wish to know the approximate weight of the ashes in advanced in order to purchase the appropriate size urn or other container.
Plan on it being roughly 3.5 % of the dog’s weight before being cremated.
What can you cremate?
Any metal, such as from your dog’s collar, tags, or any surgical pins are removed from the ashes with either a magnetic or manual method.
What do the cremains look like?
The color of the cremains can vary, but is normally gray or sometimes white. Afterward, they are placed into either a container that the crematorium provides or one that you purchased.
Choosing the Type of Dog Cremation
There are typically three ways a dog can be cremated: private, witnessed, and communal.
Some facilities may offer all of them, others only one. Below is a brief description of each type:
- Private Cremation: Your dog is placed in a private and separate compartment in the cremation chamber. This way, you are sure to receive only his or her ashes.
- Witnessed Cremation: Allows you to watch the cremating as it is happening. This type can sometimes help with the grieving process.
- Communal Cremation: Your pet will be placed into the chamber along with other animals. Normally the ashes are not returned to you.
How Much Does Dog Cremation Cost?
The costs vary depending on the options chosen, weight of your dog, and any added extras. Below are average prices, which will give you a basic idea:
- Cremation: This can be anywhere from $50 – $350, depending on the facility you use, the weight of your dog, and the type of cremation you choose.
- Pick-up: In most areas, you are allowed to bring your pet in to the facility. Pick-up is frequently included during regular business hours during the week. However, outside of their business hours, the charge runs around $30 – $45.
- Viewing: If you wish to view the cremation, there is typically a charge of approximately $20 – $30 extra.
- Urn: If you desire that the ashes are placed in an urn or other container, they usually run from $50 – $1,000. Some places include a basic urn or box.
Water Cremation
If you are environmentally conscious, there is a relatively new process is called Aquamation which may interest you.
It began in Australia a few years ago and has since grown rapidly in other parts of the world.
Water instead of a flame
This method uses a gentle flow of water combined with temperature and alkalinity, which accelerates the biological course of time.
The ashes are clean and light green in color. Consequently, they can be safely returned to the environment.
Memorials for Dogs
After the cremation, the pain of losing your pet still remains, just as with any other family member.
For that reason, many people find that creating a memorial for their pet can help with the grieving process.
Below are some ideas for memorializing your pet:
Dog Cremation Urns:
Displaying your furry friend’s ashes in a dog urn is a popular choice.
You can place the memorial in a special place in your home.
Each time you look at the urn, it will remind you of your faithful companion.
Urns come in any number of styles such as modern, traditional, rustic, funny, cute, or you can have one custom made.
For those who want something biodegradable, you can turn the ashes into a tree urn or spread the remains using a water urn.
Want to know more about Dog Urns?
We recommend you read our Dog Urns Guide, which goes through some of the best options.
Dog Headstones:
Dog Headstones are another great way to remember your beautiful dog.
They come in granite, river stone, red stone, and many other materials.
They’re suitable for indoors and outdoors.
You can personalize them in a number of ways.
Want to know more?
Check out our guide on dog headstones if you want to know more about what’s available.
Dog Cremation Jewelry:
Cremation Earrings
Remarkably, the jewelry is sometimes produced with a bit of the ashes mixed in with the material from which it’s made. Examples such as cremation diamonds and crystals.
It’s then made into any sort of jewelry you can imagine, such as rings and bracelets.
Cremation Art:
Most people are surprised to learn that you can use your dog’s ashes to create a stunning work of art.
Cremation art gives you an alternative and creative method for symbolizing the memory of your furry friend.
Dog Cremation Necklaces:
A huge assortment of pendants are manufactured, which can be worn on a chain around your neck.
That way, you can always hold your furry one against your heart.
These can be in the form of lockets, cylinders, and anything else, which contains a bit of the ashes or a tiny lock of hair.
Dog Ash Keychains:
Another way of keeping your missed companion with you is with a keychain in which you can place a small amount of your dog’s ashes or hair.
Many are shaped like cylinders, but they come in numerous shapes with engravings and graphics.
Finding a Service Provider
Most cremation providers are honest and have your best interests at heart.
Nonetheless, there are others that have unscrupulous methods and do the least possible for the most money.
Reputable Associations
You might want to contact places such as the International Association of Pet Cemeteries’ and Crematories (IAOPCC), who’s members must adhere to a strict code of ethics and standards.
There are a few ways to locate a service provider for the cremation of your pet listed below:
- Veterinarian: Many dogs pass away while at their premises, so finding a provider is a frequent part of their job.
- Online: There are online services where you can locate a facility in your state such as Everlife Memorials.
- Animal Shelters: Your local animal shelter most likely has information as well. They usually euthanize animals frequently and possibly cremate as well.
- Prearrange: Another way is to research places in your area and preferably make the arrangements in advance.
Whichever method you use, it’s advisable to check out the policies and credentials of the facility, even if it is recommended by your vet.
Moving on
This is a time in your life that you will always remember. The pain remains, but will one day become happy memories of the love and unconditional dedication you received from you beloved pet. I
f this guide helps you through this time with a little less confusion and time, then it has served its purpose. If you have now or in the past lost a precious pet from your life, you have our deepest condolences.
“If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans.” – James Herriot
I just lost my beautiful pup and am devastated. She meant the world to me even though shes had a hard time this past year getting older..like us. But she would look at me even when she couldnt see well or hear well and that look would go right to my soul. She loved me more than any person ever could. I will always keep her in my heart. Love you lucky girl.
I’m in the same boat… just lost my precious Sydnie-Ray last Thursday (July 25). 12.5 years went by far too quickly… and although I’m so thankful for her long life, there isn’t really any age that I can think of when I’d be ready to say goodbye to her.
Im going thru this same thing my love moses just passed this week i never thought i was going to put him to rest he all of a sudden started having seizures and was medicated but the med never helped he was under Dr orders but nothing helped they say it mustof been a tumor on the brain nevetgot a chace tovdo a MRI . Im so sorry for your loss are pup mean the world to us how are we saposto move on i can hardly get up in ky mornings with out him . Bless you and your lose baby .she has crossed over the rainbow bridge
On 12/30/19, I lost my Bella, an 8yo white Chihuahua, who loved me as deeply as I loved her. In the wee hours, she had a stroke, her right side legs no longer worked. My deep respect & love for that loving little furgurl would never let her suffer further. I made the appt & our vet took care of everything very gently. Her little urn is home with me now but, with great love, there also is deep grief. I was truly blessed to love Sparrow’s Bella Pearl…my Bella.
My Phoenix is gone from our home but not our hearts. He knew my secrets, laid next to my bed when I was sick and was my son’s “little brother “. My heart is broken and part of my soul is bleeding. I pray the Rainbow Bridge is real, so I may see him again. He was more faithful than anyone I know. I miss him deeply.
Just lost our little Bailey, she was 12 years old, gonna miss her she was a big part of my life.
I lost my best friend yesterday to the cancer. He was only 6 years old ,had an operation 18 months ago to remove a few skin cancers . He recovered well and have been so greatfull for the time we had together.
Now that my boy has gone I’m feeling so lost without him. My home is empty without my boy , feels like a peace of heart is been taken away from me…. Can’t stop crying ….everywhere I look hes is not their….
Organised he’s cremation this morning , this just doesn’t feel right .
Still can’t believe he’s gone ….
RIP my handsome boy Captain xxx
My heart grieves for all of you, as I go through it with my beautiful Lulu who passed yesterday suddenly. She loved me like no other, and I will always love her like no other. I am so devastated, as is our family. Lulu was a mixed blue Boston, and such a beauty who pranced around us when she wanted to play. She greeted us with someone’s shoe and was a puppy at heart even though she was 9 years old. Our other family pups are going through it, too. I really am in so much pain, and I dont think I can ever get overlosimg my beautiful Lulu.I am sending prayers to all of you. Love, Ana
I had to make the hardest decision to let my Beckham go 2 days ago, he had cancer and 3 surgeries and could cancer came back more aggressively and we could not win the battle this time, I had him since he was 8 weeks young and after 11 1/2 years I had to regretfully let him go. I did not do it for me, I did it for him because I would have kept him here in any condition but because of the LOVE I have for him, I did it for him. I miss him soooo much and I don’t know how long it will take for me to feel better because I’m hurting. He was the BEST DOG I have ever owned. He was handsome, smart and loved me like no one ever has, He was my best friend and now my home is lonely and i miss him following me from room to room to see what I’m doing. I pray we will see each other again on the other side @ the Rainbow Bridge. ……. I MISS YOU BECKHAM!
Oh this hit me hard friend. Mine was 9 and was sick with an infection that she didn’t present until it was too late. I 100 percent understand all the feelings right now. I am lost without my baby and it’s so incredibly difficult.
My Andy Boy passed away Nov 18 2019. Picked up his ashes yesterday. 13 years was not enough time with him. Forever would have been too short. Missing him so much it hurts. He had an oral tumor last year, he beat that with radiation. However. We can’t beat the clock. Love you Andy.
My lil bro Shiro just passed away a few hours ago.
We want to cremate him, but heck there are no pet cremation services in my whole state in India. Im freaking mad right now
I lost my boy it’s really hard to get over him he was a mama boy he followed me everywhere the bathroom shower to make sure I was ok I love you my boy Kobe can’t wait to hold your ashes baby I love you forever you meant the world to me ox my heart ❤️ hurts still passed away nov 12/2019
We lost our 11 1/2 year old female Maltese last night. She died in my wife’s arm. We had her since she was 2 month old and I believe she died of a heart attack, which she had a couple of occurrences before. She didn’t come around this time. When she was alive she brought us so much joy , now she gone and we’ll miss her very much.
We’re so heartbroken at the loss of our sweet and affectionate pal, Rex. I read the stories of how others have lost their pets and feel their pain. He entertained us during Hurricane Sandy, he loved being around people, was a very smart Beagle-mix rescue dog, loved carrots, my ice cubes, watermelon rinds, and would take a person down for Mommy’s scrambled eggs! Unfortunately, he was born with way too many health issues that took a toll on his tender, 34lb body. He was a lovely dog that will be missed every day. You’ll always live inside our hearts, Rex.
I just lost my Daisy two weeks ago. She was 13 years old. She had cancer right before the holidays. I miss her so much. We had her creamted. Its hard but I have to remember she is at peace now. I’m going to miss taking her on rides in the car, dressing her in her doggie clothes and putting her in her doggie car seat. Yes my dog was beyond spolied. Love you my Daisy. See you one day again.
My wife and I st our Spanky on super bowl day. He was a 13yr old English Bulldog. He was diagnosed with bloat and we had to put him down 2hrs later after living a completly healthy life. To say that it was sudden would be an understatement. I never thought I would hurt so much. This site has helped a lot and we can’t wait to get his ashes back. I hope someone else finds comfort in my post as I did with the others.
the 26 of February I lost the love of my life my dog Rudi
words can`t describe the pain I felt
I cried and still do he will always be in my heart and soul
Billy March 15, 2020
I adopted my Billy from the Humane Society at age four, He must have been mistreated by his original caretakers because he did not like men much and bit me for several months to the point I almost returned him. I never gave up on my 14-pound chihuahua mix, and after several months our relationship began to bloom. Our bond grew so strong he quickly became the best dog I had ever had in my entire 64 years of life. His illness came out of nowhere as his blue-grey color allowed him to never age in appearance. He was his “Daddy’s Little Boy” and I loved him as much as any human I had ever known. I took him everywhere, seldom leaving him behind during his lifetime. I proudly displayed my shirt “If I Can’t Bring My Dog, Then I’m Not Going”. Billy died of Heart Disease two months before reaching his 14th birthday. I will Love Daddy’s Little Boy forever in my heart and hope to meet up with him when my life ends. His ashes will remain until that day with instructions to spread his ashes with mine when that time comes. My life is so lonely now without my boy, as I have shed enough tears to fill a pool. I am worried my life will never be the same again. I just wanted to share the impact of the passing of my best friend ever has had on me. I love animals of all kinds and I pray one day another furry friend will find my heart again.
I am so sorry for your loss.
We lost our Hugo in the middle of the night May 21. We lost our 1st dog in 2013, and this is our 2nd dog lost 7 years later. We know the pain and how much it hurts. May you have peace and happiness again real soon.
My Rocky would have been 10 on April 11. I got him when he was 6 months. Thank you for your post. I feel the exact same way. He had heart congestive failure and started having problems breathing. I had him on meds etc and I really thought a shot of lasix to ER vet would do the trick but I saw his eyes and knew. I thought I was going to physically die. So March 14 2020 at 5 30 am my baby was gone. With me thru a divorce, death of my father, cross country move, new home and so much more. He truly made me a better person and even though I can’t imagine my life without him I will live it because of him.
We just lost our little girl Zoey a yorkie on Saturday 4 /18/2020 . She was 15 and a half yrs old !! We got her back from Pet Haven after they cremated her 4 days later . I am glad to have her back home but my heart still is aching . I miss her little face looking at me . She followed me every where I went …I miss her clicking little Paws on the floors . RIP Zoey MaMa misses you !!
I was out of the country when my son e mailed me that Abby is no more. After almost two years, there isn’t a day that I didn’t think of her. We brought in Dec. 2000 and she lived strongly till 2018. I suspect foul play. Daily walked with her talking all the time. She was my friend in my lonely life. I fed her with best food. She understood me and was after me where ever I went. Slept near my bed and sat near bathroom door till I came out. Loved to play hide and seek and race with me. I am back and clueless about her finals. In town, still she walks with me. I talk to her as usual. She grew with a strong body that two cops stopped to admire her. I miss my Abby so much.
I just lost my dear sweet Ginger Lynn a few hours ago. She was the sweetest most feisty little girl. She was my best friend and was tough as nails. We did everything together. My little girl was truly an Angel I got her when she was 8 weeks old and she was the love of my life, She was born with a heart murmur and it gradually got worse. 9 years was not long enough with you. I will forever miss that smiling little face when I get home and her bark when she has to go out. I never thought a little dog could fill my heart with so my love but she sure did. I love you Ginger and you’ll be missed so very much Sleep with the Angels sweetheart I love you
SAMMY 17 YEARS IN OUR LIFES DIED AT 6 A.M. POOR DOG HAD CANCER
My baby girl Mer Mer has been gone a week now. The house is so quite with out her. She was the heart of the house. Now I can’t go in the back yard or living room. I miss her so much. Hope this gets easier.
I just lost my precious “Pep” this morning. I can’t stop crying. He was my baby, my “second” son and my best buddy! A beautiful Pomeranian with a wonderful personality and adorable little face. Got him when he was just 8 weeks old — hard to believe that tiny ball of fur could have stolen my heart but he sure did. Everyday for 15 years he was a blessing in my life. My house feels so empty without him — I miss him so much – We will always Love you Pep –