Private Cremation
Your pet will be respectfully cremated with West Coast Pet Memorial. The ashes will be returned in an urn of your choice to your regular veterinarian, along with a lock of fur and a clay paw print. For an additional fee, the urn can be shipped directly to your residence.
Communal Cremation
Your beloved pet will be respectfully cremated, with their ashes laid to rest in the serene Chiricahua Mountains. Please note, the ashes are not returned to the owners. A cherished clay paw print will be provided as a lasting keepsake. This clay paw print will be returned to your regular veterinarian. For an additional fee, the clay paw print can be shipped directly to your residence.
Private Disposition
If you choose a private burial, you will be responsible for making the arrangements. Please ensure you comply with all local county, city, and state ordinances regarding private burial.
Burial with Pet Cemetery
For burial at a pet cemetery, you will need to independently contact and schedule arrangements with a cemetery of your choice.
FAQs
What Happens to My Pet After the Appointment?
After you have had the time you need, we will respectfully prepare and transport your pet according to the aftercare choice you made. Every step is handled gently, and we will explain what to expect before we leave.
Should I Choose Private or Communal Cremation?
Private cremation returns your pet’s individual ashes and selected memorial items, while communal cremation does not return ashes. The right choice is simply the one that best fits your family’s wishes, beliefs, and budget.
What If I Don’t Know What to Do with My Pet’s Ashes?
There is no deadline and no single right way to keep or memorialize your pet’s ashes. You may display, scatter, bury, divide, or store them until an idea feels meaningful, and it is perfectly okay to take your time.
Will I Know When It’s the Right Time to Scatter My Pet’s Ashes?
There is no required timeline for scattering ashes; some families know immediately, while others wait months or years. Choose a time and place that feel peaceful and meaningful, and know that keeping the ashes is also completely okay.
Why Does Compassionate Pet Crossing Partner with West Coast Pet Memorial?
West Coast Pet Memorial shares our commitment to respectful, dignified aftercare and provides the memorial options our families value. Working with a trusted local partner also helps us maintain clear communication from the appointment through the return of ashes.
How Do I Know My Pet’s Ashes Will Be Handled With Care?
Your pet is identified and tracked throughout each step of the cremation process so their remains are handled respectfully and returned accurately. We partner with West Coast Pet Memorial because we trust their procedures, professionalism, and commitment to dignified care.
Can I Choose a Different Crematory?
Yes, you may request a different crematory or arrange aftercare directly with a provider you prefer. Please tell us before the appointment so we can coordinate transportation and explain any arrangements or fees that may apply.
What Is Fire-Based Pet Cremation?
Fire-based cremation uses controlled heat to reduce the body to cremated remains, which are then carefully processed and returned after private cremation. It is a long-established aftercare option chosen by many families.
What Is Water-Based Pet Cremation (Aquamation)?
Water-based cremation, or aquamation, uses water, gentle heat, and an alkaline solution rather than flame to complete the natural process. It may return a greater volume of lighter-colored remains and is chosen by some families for personal or environmental reasons. We do not offer water-based cremation at this time.
What Is a Clay Paw Print?
A clay paw print is a three-dimensional impression of your pet’s paw made as a lasting memorial keepsake. It preserves the unique shape and texture of their paw and can be displayed or kept with other cherished memories.
What Is an Ink Paw or Nose Print?
An ink paw or nose print is a detailed two-dimensional impression created with archival-quality ink. It can be framed, placed in a memory book, or used for artwork, jewelry, or a tattoo.
Why Do Families Choose to Keep a Lock of Fur?
A small lock of fur can preserve a gentle physical connection to the texture and color families remember so well. Some keep it in a memory box or beside an urn, while others choose not to receive one; either choice is completely okay.
Can My Pet’s Ashes Be Delivered Back to My Home?
Yes, with a private or communal cremation we can personally deliver your pet’s ashes and memorial items to your home for an additional $75. Many families find comfort in welcoming their companion home without needing to travel while grieving.
Can My Pet’s Ashes Be Mailed to Me?
Yes, ashes from a private cremation can be mailed with signature confirmation for an additional $40. Someone must be available to sign for the package so it can be delivered safely.
How Long Does It Take to Receive My Pet’s Ashes?
Private-cremation ashes and memorial items are usually ready within 10 to 14 days through West Coast Pet Memorial. Return options include pickup from the crematory or a participating regular veterinarian, home delivery for $75, or mailing with signature confirmation for $40.