Aftercare Options

One of the decisions families face during end-of-life planning is how they would like to care for their pet's remains. There is no right or wrong choice, and I am happy to answer any questions you may have before or during the appointment.

With private cremation, your pet is cremated individually and their specific ashes are returned to you.

True North Veterinary Care partners with West Coast Pet Memorial Services for cremation services. Ashes are typically returned within approximately one week, although turnaround times may vary.

West Coast Pet Memorial Services offers a variety of urns, keepsakes, and memorial products. Available options can be reviewed before the appointment or selected afterward if needed.

If you choose private cremation, I will respectfully transport your pet following the appointment and coordinate all arrangements on your behalf.

Due to safety considerations, transportation of larger pets may require assistance from family members or special arrangements with the crematory. Pets weighing more than 100 pounds or those located in areas with limited accessibility may require advance planning. Please notify True North Veterinary Care if your pet weighs over 100 pounds or if there are stairs, steep terrain, or other access limitations.

With communal cremation, pets are cremated together and ashes are not returned, but are instead scattered in the gardens on the crematorium grounds.

Many families choose communal cremation when they do not wish to keep ashes but would still like their pet's remains handled with dignity and care.

I will transport your pet and coordinate arrangements with the crematory.

Some families prefer to bury their pet at home or on private property.

If you are considering home burial, please verify that burial is permitted in your area and that the selected location meets any local requirements. It is recommended that the burial site be prepared before the appointment whenever possible.

If home burial is planned, family members are responsible for transporting and caring for their pet's remains after the appointment.

Many families find comfort in keeping a special remembrance of their pet.

Options may include:

• Clay paw prints
• Ink paw prints
• Nose print
• Fur clippings
• Urns
• Jewelry and keepsakes

Please let me know before the appointment if there are specific memorial items you would like whenever possible.

When ashes are ready, you may choose to have them:

• Returned to your primary veterinary clinic (when available)
• Delivered by UPS
• Returned through an alternate arrangement discussed in advance

Details will be confirmed at the time of the appointment.

If you are unsure which option is best for your family, that is completely normal. Many families have not had to make these decisions before. I am happy to discuss the available options and help you determine what feels most meaningful for you and your pet.

Whatever aftercare option you choose, your pet will be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion every step of the way.