Q: Do you euthanize pets?
A: No. This is a job for a professional and we leave this to the Vets. However we work very closely with vet clinics in the region to provide our cremation services to all their clients.
Q: How do I arrange for my pet to be cremated?
A: All it takes is a phone call from either you or your vet and we will take care of everything else. Within the Nelson, Richmond, Brightwater and Wakefield areas we provide a FREE collection service for your deceased pet from either your home or your vet. We also provide the FREE delivery of your pet’s ashes back to either you or your vet. For areas outside of this range, we can arrange for a courier. You are also welcome to bring your pet to us yourself.
Q: How do I know that I will get my own pets ashes back?
A: Each pet is carefully assigned to its own designated compartment in the cremator which is clearly identified and labelled by our operator. This procedure guarantees that each pet remains separated during and after the cremation process. We also supply you with a personalised cremation certificate, guaranteeing that you have received your own pet’s ashes and no other.
Q: Can I cremate anything else with my pet?
A: Yes, absolutely! Anything small thing that was special to your pet, such as toys or blankets can be cremated with your pet. We are mindful of our carbon foot print and the environment, so we respectfully suggest that you consider allowing us to distribute extra toys and blankets to organisations where your items can be used by sick, abused or neglected animals.
Q: What happens to the bones once the cremation is finished?
A: Following the cremation, all that remains are the bones, which are mostly disintegrated into small pieces. These remains are carefully and individually collected in their container. Any metal remains from collars or orthopaedic surgery are then temporarily removed so that the remaining bones can be ground up into the ashes. You will receive the metal remains mixed back in with the ashes. Everything is then placed into a plastic bag and sealed for packaging in a cardboard urn and labelled with your pet’s name. If you would like to have the ashes preserved in another style of urn, please let us know.
Q: Is it all my pet’s ashes that I get back?
A: Yes, absolutely! Every part of your pets remains, including any special toys, blankets or cuddles that were cremated with your pet are included in the ashes that you receive back and absolutely nothing at all is discarded.
Q: Do you embalm pets?
A: No, we only cremate.
Q: Can two pets be cremated together?
A: Yes, absolutely! Two or more pets can be cremated together. Naturally their ashes will remain together and will be placed into the same container or urn.
Q: Can you cremate pets that have been micro-chipped?
A: Yes, absolutely! Micro-chips are not a problem and simply burn up to nothing on cremation. However, if the pet has a pacemaker (although this not at all common in NZ) then the pacemaker needs to be removed prior to cremation as it can cause an explosion.
Q: How long does the cremation process take?
A: Our goal is to have your pet’s ashes back to either you or your vet within 7 working days
Q: Is it better to bury or cremate my pet?
A: This is purely a personal choice and may depend on the size of your pet, or the availability of a suitable burial plot on your property. If you are renting, then your landlord may object to burial and when you eventually leave this property you will have to leave your pet behind. Cremating allows you to take your pet with you wherever you go.
Q: Can you cremate a pet that has already been buried?
A: Yes, absolutely! We get quite a few pet owners who initially decide on burial but then for a variety of reasons decide that they made the wrong choice and dig them up (exhume) their pets and bring them to us for cremation.
Q: How much will it cost to have my pet cremated?
A: This is determined by the size and weight of your pet. Your vet will give this information at the time or you can phone us directly with your pet’s particulars and we will give you a price.