Dogs are believed to be the first animal to be domesticated by man and have become our most loyal and trusted companions. Recent studies estimate that 24% of the UK adult population have a dog - which means there are nearly 9 million living with us!
When we lose our beloved pet dog, it can be heart-breaking. There is arguably no greater human-animal bond (cat and other pet owners may disagree) and there are many ways to commemorate your dog’s life and friendship.
Dog Cremation Services
At PCS we offer two types of dog cremation for your beloved pet.
Individual cremations ensure that your dog is cremated alone within a clean, enclosed chamber. You are guaranteed that the ashes you receive or are placed into our memorial garden, will be all and only those of your beloved dog.
A communal cremation is the second option. This means that your pet will be cremated with a small group of others, as there is no separation of pets in this process, you will not receive any ashes back from a communal pet cremation.
Both types of cremation are carried out with the utmost care and respect, and there is no right or wrong choice.
Find out more about individual cremation
Our Pet Remembrance Book
Our remembrance book is one way of giving your dog a loving tribute. You can add your own message to the many other remembrances.
We have many messages for pet dogs from loving owners and it is easy to see the amazing difference ‘man’s best friend’ has made to so many of our lives.
Dog Memorials
Memorialising your pet dog is something that some people will want to do while others may wish to simply cherish fond memories and have no desire for a physical reminder. As with the grieving process, this is unique to the individual pet owner.
We have a number of ways to memorialise your pet dog which are contained within the shop and services sections of this website.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is often difficult to process information at a time of grief and PCS are here to provide clear, expert advice about the cremation options available in your time of need. Please do not hesitate to contact us. Many people find themselves in this position for the first time or have only just become aware of pet cremation services.
Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers:
Q: How does dog cremation work?
A: Please see our services section for more information on the process of our pet cremation and memorial services.
Q: I have a very big dog, will this be OK?
A: We have helped pet owners with most large breeds of dog so there will not be a problem. If you have concerns, please contact us.
Q: Can I collect ashes from a communal cremation?
A: No, as members of the IAOPCC (International Association Of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories) we do not present ashes from any communal cremations due to the co-mingling of ashes within the chamber. The key reason is out of respect for other owners.
Q: Can I arrange dog cremation through my vet?
A: Typically 'yes', most veterinary centres will have an arrangement with pet crematoria so that they can handle this for you.
Q: What do I do if my dog dies at home?
A: Although your personal situation and beliefs may shape the end-of-life process for your pet, your two main options are burial and cremation. Discussing an end-of-life plan with your veterinary practice can be a good opportunity to understand your options and make decisions that might become more difficult with time. This also allows you time to ask any questions, sign consent forms and feel more confident and clearheaded in your decision-making.
In situations where the loss is unexpected, you still have many options. Will you want to stay with your pet’s body to say goodbye, or would you like to arrange for the body to be collected immediately? Pre-payment for cremation fees can also be an option where you can avoid dealing with 'business matters' during a sensitive time.
Whether you choose the burial or cremation option, you can choose to take your pet’s body directly to the crematorium yourself or you might be able to arrange collection, either through your vet, or some of our pet crematoriums offer a dedicated collection service.
If you choose to take your pet’s body to the crematorium yourself, it is important to ensure that you line your car seat or boot with a protective material to avoid any leakage of body fluid.
Finally, perhaps consider arranging support in advance, for instance, making plans with a family member or friend who can provide physical and emotional support.
If you couldn't find the answers you were looking for, please view more of our FAQ's
Dog Bereavement Support and Charities
We understand the emotional journey that pet owners will go through on the loss of their pet. There are a number of helpful websites that are available:
Help & Support:
Dog Charities:
A message from PCS
Always remember that there is no right or wrong way to feel when you lose your beloved dog. Just as your dog was unique to you, your feelings around pet loss are unique and everyone grieves in their own way.
