We understand that choosing what to do with your pet’s remains is an extremely personal decision, and we want to completely honor your wishes. As with every other aspect of your pet’s transition between life and death, your personal preferences and beliefs, as well as cost and local regulations can all affect your decision. Here are several options.
Cremation is the option most often chosen by our pet parents, in part because our CodaPet vets can handle all the cremation details for you, whether you decide on private or communal.
This makes it possible for us to return the remains of your pet in an urn of your choice. You can then choose to bury the ashes, scatter them, or even transfer them to a decorative urn or other keepsake. If you would prefer water-based cremation (Aquamation) rather than traditional flame based, please ask your CodaPet vet if this is available in your area. If you'd like to consider the different options of urns we offer, please consult with your CodaPet vet before or at the appointment.*Aquamation places your pet’s body in a bath consisting of water and salts that together, hasten the process that would normally occur if your pet had been buried. It takes longer than traditional cremation (up to 24 hours) and has less impact on the environment.
We also offer communal cremation options for a lower price. This option ensures your pet is cremated with others and the ashes are ceremoniously spread on the crematorium grounds or another location.
If your city/county regulations allow, you can choose to bury your pet on your personal property. Please check local regulations to see if this is legal in your area.
Many areas have pet cemeteries where you can bury your pet and mark the grave, making it possible for you to visit as you might with any other family member who has passed. If you want to bury your pet in a cemetery, you will need to choose and make arrangements with a local pet cemetery before the euthanasia appointment. Please be sure to let your CodaPet vet know if you have planned for such a burial.
Some people choose to preserve a lifelike replica of their pet. If you are interested in this option, we recommend that you ask the taxidermist you plan to use to determine the most ideal method of storing your pet’s remains after passing. Please share this information with your CodaPet veterinarian as soon as possible so they are aware of your wishes.
Some people find comfort in knowing that as painful as it is to say goodbye to their pet, his or her remains can provide invaluable learning opportunities for future veterinarians and pet nurses. If that resonates with you, contact a veterinary teaching hospital or university prior to euthanasia to determine their current need. Please be sure to ask them if there is a particular drug that your CodaPet Vet should either use or avoid so that your pet’s condition at the time of passing will remain clear for the students to study. They might also have questions for your regular veterinarian about your pet’s general health and diagnosis.As difficult as it is to think about any of these options, deciding what you want ahead of time will help all concerned to honor your wishes.
"The experience was extremely smooth. Dr Hsia made the process as easy as he could considering the circumstances. We opted for retrieving our buddy back cremated and he came back in a very nice wooden box. I highly recommend utilizing this process while you make the tough decision of losing your pet."
"Dr Whala was so kind, compassionate and patient. She explained everything so well. I would recommend her and this company to anyone without hesitation. this was such a blessing during a hard time - thanks so much"
"No one wants to have to use this service but our vet made is bearable and she cared about Rookie."
Here are our frequently asked questions to help you feel fully informed and at ease.