Understanding Pet Aftercare Options

After in-home pet euthanasia, families often wonder what comes next. Understanding your pet aftercare options helps ensure a smooth, easy and respectful process.

Cremation Options

Private vs. Communal Cremation

• Private: your pet’s ashes are returned to you. There is no mixing of ashes, the returned remains are purely your own pets.

• Communal: cremation is shared among multiple pets. With this options, ashes are typically not returned. Most places will respectfully scatter these ashes in a designated area such as farm or memorial site.

• Choosing either option is based on personal preference, there is no right or wrong option.

Burial Options

Home Burial and Pet Cemeteries

• Some families prefer burial at home. If you choose to do this, it is very important to check the regulations for your state and county. If you have any questions in regards to this, please do not hesitate to reach out to your county, veterinarian or end of life providers in the area.

• Pet cemeteries offer dedicated spaces and memorial options as well but are becoming increasingly difficult to find as most providers are now going to cremation instead of burial. Some pet cemeteries located in Ohio include

  • Pines Pet Cemetery and Cremation Center

  • Trusted Journey

  • Angel Refuge

Memorialization

There are many options for memorialization that can be just as unique as your beloved companion. Memorialization can be a physical item or it can be a ritual, habit or activity that you do in honor of your pet.

Memorial Keepsakes

• Paw prints, urns, or framed photos

• Jewelry or ornaments featuring your pet

  
  

Memorialization Activities

• Hold a memorial service for your pet after their passing. Most crematoriums will offer this service on site or you can choose to do so in the comfort of your home.

• Participate in your pets favorite activity such as walking at their favorite park.

Making the Right Choice

Consider your family’s needs, budget, and emotional comfort. Learn more about aftercare services on our Services & Pricing page or our After Care page.

Understanding aftercare options can ease the process and honor your pet’s memory.

Final Journey Home offers guidance and compassionate care for families in Columbus, Ohio.