How Much To Cremate a Dog And What Else To Expect

Losing a pet is an unfortunate occurrence. However, it is a reality that most pet owners will have to face at some point because most people outlive their pets. Although no one likes to think about it, in the unfortunate event that you lose your beloved pooch, one of the things you have to do is make end-of-life arrangements for it. This is often a tough time for pet owners because you’re grieving the loss of a special member of the family while having to make tough decisions. One of the major choices you have to make is whether you want your dog buried or cremated. A major factor determining if you will be opting for cremation is how much to cremate a dog.

Cremation Vs. Burial: What You Need To Know  

Cremation has become quite a popular choice for pet owners in recent times because it is a more affordable option compared to burial. In many cases, it is the only practical choice available. Backyard pet burial is illegal in many states, and even if it isn’t in yours, it can be quite stressful. 

You’ll have to dig at least 3 feet into the ground while avoiding any gas or water lines in the process. It’s even more difficult if your pet dies during winter in an area with an extremely cold climate. Then there’s the issue of wanting to have something to remember your pet friend by. All of these factors make cremation seem like a better idea compared to burying your pet. So what’s your move? Most times, the decision comes down to cost. Knowing the cost of cremating a dog can help you decide if you want to go for that solution or not. 

How Much Does It Cost to Cremate a Dog? 

It’s a bit difficult to predict the exact cost of cremation because it depends on several factors. The cremation method, the size of your dog, and your location are some factors that determine how expensive the process will be. You can expect to spend between $70 to $250 to get your pet cremated. There are additional costs to factor in, such as pickup fees or whether or not you want to witness the cremations. These extra costs depend on your specific preferences and arrangement with the crematorium. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the likely cost of dog cremation based on various factors. 

How Much To Cremate A Dog Based on Method

Most pet crematoriums offer the option of private cremation, communal cremation, and individual cremation. Of these three methods, communal cremation is the cheapest. 

• Communal cremation: This involves cremating multiple pets together at once. This is often the best option for those looking for an affordable cremation solution. On average, communicable creation costs between $30 to $70. The main downside to this method of cremation is that you do not get your pet’s ashes back when it is done. 
• Individual: This is a semi-private alternative. It still involves multiple pets being cremated at the same time. However, each pet is kept separate, making it possible to identify the ashes and return them to their owners after the cremation. Individual cremation may cost between $50 to $150. 
• Private: Your pet is cremated alone in a private cremation chamber with this method. This means you can get the ashes back after the cremation. Of course, this method is the most expensive and can cost between  $175 to $250 on average. 

How Much to Cremate a Dog Based on Size

Another factor that may influence the cost of dog cremation is the size of your dog breed. Most crematoriums charge a higher price for bigger dog breeds for obvious reasons. The size of the dog determines how long it’ll take to complete the cremation and how much room will be needed. Private cremation for small dog breeds like a Frenchie or chihuahua costs around $175. For mid-sized breeds like a poodle or collie, you can expect to spend around $215. If your dog is a Saint Bernard, Great Dane, or any other large breed, you may need $250 or more for a private cremation. 

How Much to Cremate a Dog Based on Your Location

The cost of all pet services often depends on your location. This applies to dog cremation as well. For instance, in a big city like New York, you can spend up to $300 to cremate a small dog. However, if you live in a small town, cremation could cost as low as $50 for the same dog. You can search specifically for local cremation services around you to get a more accurate estimate of how much you’ll need. 

Additional Fees 

In addition to the cost of the cremation service itself, there are additional costs to keep in mind that may affect how much you’ll spend on having your pet cremated. These include:

Special Memorabilia 

Some pet owners choose to immortalize their pet by having the ashes (cremains) placed in a special urn or any other sort of memorabilia such as keychains, specialized jewelry, and so on. Most crematoriums allow you to bring your own urn if you want. Special memorabilia may cost anything from $49 to over $500 depending on your preferences. 

Best Urn for Pet Cremains

KC Katie Collection Small Urn for Human or Pet Cremains

• Handcrafted
• Designed to share small amounts of cremains with multiple family members
• Will not fade or tarnish
• Has a felt bottom to protect the surface it rests on
• Includes a velvet drawstring bag

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Pickup Cost 

Most pets die at home or at a vet’s office. Either way, you’ll need to move your pet’s remains to the crematorium to have them cremated. Most crematoriums offer pickup services and they may also offer to return the ashes to you when it is done. This adds $50 to $75 to the cremation cost depending on your proximity to the facility.  

Witnessed Cremation

A good number of pet crematoriums these days now offer witnessed cremation. For a small fee, you get to be present in a viewing room as your pet gets cremated. The extra cost for this typically ranges between $25 to $100. 

What To Do With Pet’s Ashes After Cremation?

If you opt for private cremation, you will be able to get your pet’s ashes back after cremation. What you do with the remains after it is returned to you depends on you. The simplest and most popular option is to place the ashes in a pet urn. Several types and designs of urns are available online, including some with a photograph of your dog on them. If you opt for private cremation, you will be able to get your pet’s ashes back after cremation. Asides from this option, some of the other things you can do with your pet’s ashes include: 

Scattering

Pets can’t give express instructions about how and where they want their ashes to be scattered as humans do. However, you can make that decision for them. The most common choice for many people is to scatter the ashes in a place your dog really loved when it was alive. For instance, If your pet loved hiking or swimming, you can scatter the ashes on its favorite hiking trail or in the water. This comes at no extra cost to you. 

Cremation jewelry

These days, you can have your dog’s ashes made into a piece of cremation jewelry. This way, you can easily carry the ashes close to you anywhere you go. The cost of cremation jewelry depends on the type of jewelry you want. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000. 

Best Memorial Jewelry

misyou Charms Memorial Pet Cremation Jewelry

• This minimalist bar urn pendant can be customized with your pet's birthstone
• Stainless steel won't fade or rust and it's hypoallergenic
• Carry a small amount of your pet's cremains
• Unisex design
• Risk-free guarantee

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Cremation art

It is also possible to turn your pet’s ashes into glass art that can be put on display in your home. They may cost between $200 to $1000 or even more, depending on the type of art. 

Memorial forests

This is an eco-friendly way to honor your pet. You can have the ashes spread in a protected forest under a tree grown in its honor. Alternatively, you can grow a tree in your yard and lay the urn to rest next to it. 

Conclusion 

These days, pet owners get various options for handling their pet’s remains if it passes. If you choose cremation, the cost depends on the method to be used and the size of your dog. Additional costs may also be incurred based on your preferences. Be rest assured that this is still one of the most affordable ways to see your pet off, and it’s a great idea regardless of the cost. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Jpr03