| Question #1 | Is Pet Cremation increasing in popularity? |
| Answer: | Yes. Cremation has been increasing in popularity and acceptability in the funeral business for decades. It only stands to reason that more people would choose it for their pets as well. Cremation is simple, clean and affordable. |
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| Question #2 | How is cremation accomplished? |
| Answer: | A pet's body is placed in the cremation chamber where, through heat and evaporation, the body is reduced to its basic elements which are referred to as "cremated remains." It may surprise many to learn that ashes are not the final result since "cremated remains" have neither the appearance nor the chemical properties of ashes - they are, in fact, bone fragments. Since the term "cremated remains" is little used by the public, most people refer to the "cremated remains" as "ashes." Following preparation, the ashes are placed in a permanent urn or in a temporary container, suitable for transport. |
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| Question #3 | Can my veterinarian help me with cremation for my pet? |
| Answer: | Yes. Your veterinarian has been a trusted partner to you and your pet in matters of healthcare, so it only makes sense to ask their advice about death care or cremation. There are often multiple pet cremation providers in a market place. You, along with the help of your veterinarian, should choose the one that is right for you. The decision however, is yours. Ask a lot of questions, do your homework. |
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| Question #4 | What if my pet dies at home or when my veterinarian is closed? |
| Answer: | Most pet crematories claim to have a 24-hour service. It is recommended that you call, after hours, to check services, prices and professionalism of the staff, in advance of when you need them. Be sure to ask about additional fees for services, outside of business hours. |
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| Question #5 | Can I visit the pet crematories in the area? |
| Answer: | Yes, in fact, we recommend it. While the North Georgia, Tri-State crematory scandal did not impact the pet industry, it did shine a glaring light on what could happen if an innocent party partners with the wrong cremation provider. As a pet owner, you should visit the crematories in the area to learn what is offered, inspect the cleanliness and quality of the facilities and equipment. The cremation equipment should not be outside. Ask about the age of the machine and if they have other operations outside the city. Is the staff professional, kind and forthcoming with information?
Visiting the facilities will also give you peace of mind after the fact. Remember, if you are not allowed or cannot inspect the entire operation, you probably do not want to trust your pet to them. |
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| Question #6 | Is there more than one type of cremation and what type is right for me and my pet? |
| Answer: | There are two types of pet cremation: community cremation and private cremation. A common question to determine which is right for your pet is to ask yourself, "Do I want my pet's ashes back?"
Community cremation: your pet is placed in the cremation chamber with other pets to a maximum weight limit. With community cremation, it is impossible to get the ashes of your pet back without them mixed with those of other pets. Community cremation is often less expensive and may be used for final disposal.
Private cremation: your pet is placed alone in the cremation chamber. Private cremation ensures the integrity and dignity of the cremation of your pet. |
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| Question #7 | How do I know those are my pet's ashes? |
| Answer: | Some pet crematories provide a certificate of authenticity, some provide nothing at all. Since those authenticating the certificate are usually the owners/operators of the crematories, one could question the validity since pet owners or veterinarians are rarely present for the cremation. A certificate is not proof.
At Tacoma Mausoleum & Mortuary, we ensure that all pets taken into our care for private cremation receives a stainless steel ID disc that accompanies the pet throughout the process. We are the only pet crematory in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area that includes a stainless steel ID disc and therefore, we can prove the ashes returned are the ashes of your pet. The stainless steel ID disc system is identical to the rules and regulations we are familiar with for human cremation. This system provides comfort and assurance that the ashes you receive are indeed those of your pet. We are the only pet cremation provider to offer this complimentary service. |
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| Question #8 | How much does cremation cost? |
| Answer: | Pricing information can be obtained through your veterinarian or directly from us by calling Tacoma Mausoleum & Mortuary at 253-474-9574. If you speak with your veterinarian, be sure to ask which crematory facility is used and if they provide a choice of crematories. Since it is your pet, the choice belongs to you. Ask lots of questions.
Tacoma Mausoleum & Mortuary offers pricing information over the phone or through your veterinarian. Cremation prices vary, depending on products and services selected. |
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