Whether you have a dog, a cat, a guinea pig, or a rabbit, a pet teaches you about empathy and responsibility while also offering plenty of love. Unfortunately, a furry friend's life is much shorter than a human's; you'll need to say goodbye at some point. When this happens, you'll need to debate whether to go for pet cremation or burial. Use the guide below to determine if the former is right for you.

What to Know About Pet Cremation

How does pet cremation work?

This service can be done privately, with only your pet in the crematory. However, it can also be semi-private. In this case, your furry friend will share the space with a few other animals. There will be dividers between them to ensure that ashes are separated. 

Heat is applied during cremation, and the body transitions into fragments and ash, which are gathered and returned to owners. You could keep your pet's remains in a decorative urn to display in the home and honor their memory. 

Can my pet be cremated with their belongings?

Although you may want to honor your pet by cremating them with their favorite toy or blanket, this is not possible in most cases. Many crematories don't allow it, as plastic and other fibers in such materials produce fumes that are dangerous to the environment. Therefore, always check with your facility ahead of time to know what to expect. 

What happens if my pet passes away at home?

Many crematories offer services to collect pets and bring them into the facility. As such, if your furry friend passes away while at home, you won't need to do anything other than make a phone call. You'll receive the animal's ashes after the cremation is complete.

How long does pet cremation take?

Typically speaking, pet cremation can take anywhere between 45 minutes to two hours. The exact time will depend on specific circumstances, including the animal's size, species, and breed. However, you won't receive the ashes immediately following the cremation. You should expect to wait at least a few days until you obtain the remains.

If you recently lost a pet and want to have them cremated, contact Char Mac Pet Cremation in Cincinnati, OH. They've assisted grieving pet owners since 1973 and can help you choose the best action to honor your four-legged friend. They're available to answer any additional questions regarding pet cremation and have a wide selection of decorative urns to complement an animal's memorial. Learn more about their services by visiting the website or calling (513) 851-5791 today.