Pet Loss FAQ

Pet Loss FAQs | Local Pet Cremation Services

Families come to us with questions every day. Questions about our pet cremation and burial services, how to hold a pet funeral, or how to best cope with pet loss. We’ve included the most common ones here, but, if yours isn’t listed, we ask only one thing: call us at (618) 632-3713. We’ll get you the answer you need.
  • My pet has died. What do I do next?

    What to do if you are in immediate need of our services.


    Our service area is all of Wayne County and surrounding areas. We offer appointments at our Unforgettable Tails pet facility between the hours of 9am-3:30pm Monday – Friday. After hours appointments are available upon request for an additional fee. Due to the delicate and sensitive nature of our business, appointments are required to offer families uninterrupted time while bringing their pets in to our care. We kindly request that you call ahead to schedule an appointment. Or, one of our Pet Care Specialists will transfer your pet from your home or veterinary hospital. For a list of animal hospitals that utilize our services and can provide you with the necessary paperwork to fill out.

  • Do I have to purchase a casket for my pet's cremation?

    No. Often family members will wrap their pet in a favorite blanket or some other personal article of meaning to the pet or family members.

  • Are all pet crematories alike?

    In short, no. Because most states including Ohio does not regulate pet crematories, the quality of facilities, services, and staff can vary widely.

    Unlike us, some pet cremation businesses will use the terms, "individual" or "private" cremation only to actually mean SEGREGATED (use of a designated space inside the cremation equipment) where more then one pet is cremated at a time! This is unexceptable because if  this method is used, you are not getting all or are receiving a fraction of your pets cremains back!

  • How long after my pet's death will it take to receive the urn?

    If your veterinarian does not use our services and you wish to,  its definitely your choice who you wish to care for your beloved family pet.  We guarantee a faster response to avoid freezers especially when your pet passes, either at your home or vet clinic. We always respond immediately and take your pet into our care with the use of a special "shroud" right away. We do not use garbage bags like most other cremation businesses provide. We also call you once your pet is in our care to answer any additional questions and we guarantee to return your pet’s cremated remains within 72 business hours. 

  • What if my pet dies at home?

    We always have professional staff “on call” 24 hours a day, every day of the year, which means we’re ready to respond immediately to take your pet into our care whenever you may need our services. Never hesitate to call on us–day or night.

  • Is there only one type of pet cremation?

    No. Basically, there are two types of pet cremations. A private cremation is one where your pet is the only pet in the equipment during the cremation process. This is the only option that ensures the cremated remains you receive are those of your beloved pet.


    A communal cremation is one where more than one pet is involved, and all of their cremated remains are commingled as a result. With this type of cremation, it is impossible for the provider to return your pet’s cremated remains to you.

  • What questions should I ask my veterinarian or pet cremation provider?

    We advise that you ask these very important questions:

    • Where is the crematory located?
    • What specific identification procedures are in place?
    • Can I schedule/witness my pet being placed in the equipment for my peace of mind?
    • When can I come and inspect it? 
    • When will my pet be cremated and then be ready for pickup?
    • How do I know I am going to get back my pet’s cremated remains?
    • Does "private" truly mean my pet is the only one in the equipment?
    • Will my pet be treated with the dignity and respect we deserve and not be placed in a freezer or garbage bag material?
  • Do most pet owners choose "private" or "communal" cremation?

    Research indicates about 70% of all pet families choosing cremation want their pet’s cremated remains back, which means they opt for private cremation.

  • How much does cremation cost?

    We offer a number of special packages depending on your preferred type of cremation. Please call one of our experienced pet loss professionals who will give you specific pricing information, and answer any other questions you might have.

  • Is an urn required and where do I get one?

    We use a very simple, yet dignified urn in all of our cremation offerings. We offer a personalized laser engraved cedar urn, fur clippings in a heart container, an ink paw print and a certificate of cremation with an authentic chain of custody ID authorization to ensure your getting your pets remains back.Additionally, your family has the option of purchasing a more appropriate memorial urn.  We offer an assortment of memorial urns, jewelry, garden stones, and other keepsake items, and invite you to browse our online selection.

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