Choosing to cremate a beloved pet is a difficult but ultimately loving decision. Cremation allows you to honor your furry companion with the dignity and remembrance they deserve. For most pet owners, cremation is filled with unknowns — especially when it comes to pet remains. It’s completely natural and healthy to have questions or apprehension about cremation.
Understanding pet cremation ashes can provide comfort through the cremation process and prepare you for the ways you may memorialize your pet. Take a look at the answers to these common questions for guidance about pet cremation ashes.
What Are Pet Cremation Ashes?
First: They’re not JUST ashes.
Though remains are often referred to as “ashes,” this term doesn’t accurately describe what is left after cremation.
Cremation chambers reach temperatures of about 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, which reduces all organic matter to dust and dried bone. This combination of bones and ash is referred to as “cremains.”
Cremains may be returned to their owners, depending on the option selected. For a private cremation, you can expect the cremains within one to two days, whereas for a witnessed cremation, you can take the cremains home with you right away. Whether you choose a private or witnessed cremation, you can then decide what you would like to do to commemorate your cherished pet.
How Much Pet Ashes Will I Get?
The amount of cremains you’ll receive will vary depending on your pet’s weight. For smaller animals like cats and dogs, the amount of cremains will be significantly less than for a larger animal like a horse.
A simple formula for calculating cremains is:
- One pound of body weight = one cubic inch of cremains
So for a 40-pound cremation, you would need an urn with a capacity of at least 40 cubic inches.
Many pet urns are divided into specific cat, dog and horse categories, which can help you narrow down an appropriate size.
As you browse, you can select the relevant category and choose a design or style that fits best. Most urns will be labeled with their capacity in cubic inches to help ensure the item you select will be the right size.
What Do Pet Ashes Look Like?
The end result of cremation, cremains, tend to be a dust-like texture.
Post cremation, once ashes have cooled, additional steps are taken to break up the bone & ash into finer texture. The cremains you receive will likely have a white or gray color with a very-fine gravel texture.
Cremains are typically returned to owners in a transparent storage receptacle. Knowing what to expect can be helpful in preparing to view cremains for the first time.
What Do Pet Ashes Smell Like?
With many burial methods, the smell of pet remains can be a concern. However, cremation’s high temperatures do not leave any kind of scent.
The cremains you receive will be odorless and won’t bear any scent of smoke. You should be able to display cremains in a variety of ways without worrying about other pets or guests noticing a smell.
What Happens to Pet Belongings After Cremation?
Larger items like collars and tags are removed prior to cremation. Smaller items like surgical metal and microchips are not typically removed before the cremation process.
Once the cremation is complete, the small metal items are removed from the ashes with the help of a magnet or inspection. Depending on the cremation facility, you may be able to have these items returned with the cremains as a keepsake.
What Can Be Done With Pet Ashes After Cremation?
An important part of the cremation process includes deciding what you’ll do with the cremains. This can be a way to honor your pet’s memory and find comfort while you grieve. Fortunately, there are a variety of memorial options you can choose from for your pet’s cremains.
Some of the common post-pet-cremation options include:
- Decorative urns: Urns are containers designed to hold cremains. They come in a variety of styles and materials, including glass, marble, wood, crystal, bronze, brass and more. Decorative urns made for pet cremains may also include figures of the deceased pet or other personalized details. This method may be a good fit if you want your pet to remain close to you.
- Spreading cremains: Another common practice is to scatter the cremains in a beloved location. Whether your pet loved walks at a local park or a special vacation area, there are likely spots that have special meaning for you and your pet. This is a simple and free way to pay tribute to your pet and lay them to rest in a meaningful way.
- Burying cremains: Burial is an additional way to keep your pet close to you and lay them to rest. You can pick a meaningful spot to bury the cremains and mark it with a commemorative headstone. If you prefer this option, you may need to check your city’s burial regulations to ensure safety and compliance.
- Memorial keepsakes: Some crematoriums offer unique keepsakes and jewelry options to remember your pet in a special way. Cremains can be incorporated into glass art and jewelry as a tribute to your pet.
There are no inferior options when it comes to remembering your pet. The right option for you will depend on your preferences and what will best commemorate your experience together. Whatever you prefer, there are many ways to incorporate cremains into a long-lasting and meaningful tribute.
Trusted Pet Cremation Services at Agape
Losing a pet can be difficult, no matter how prepared you feel. When you lay your pet to rest, you want to know that they are in good hands. At Agape Pet Services, we specialize in dignified cremation services to honor your pets. Choose from communal or private cremation options for a service that fits your needs and adequately celebrates your pet’s life.
We know that losing a pet is difficult, and we strive to offer the respect and convenience you deserve during this time. Our 24/7 home or veterinary pickup services, respectful transportation and selection of commemorative items are designed to reduce your worries and help you cope during this challenging time. Through all of our services, we’re committed to treating your pets with love and care.
If you’d like to commemorate a pet, Agape offers a variety of stunning, customizable options. For respectful cremation filled with compassion and integrity, contact us today to learn more.
