
Pet Cremation

Compassion & Dignity for Your Pet's Aftercare Needs
We are committed to providing the best possible care for our clients. We know you have many questions about "What happens now?"
We adhere to the highest standards and ethics of pet aftercare. We are accredited by The International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories.
Frequently asked questions
What do I do if my pet dies when the crematory is closed?
In the event your pet passes naturally or by euthanasia outside of normal crematory business hours, you are always welcome to call us at 970-250-8493 and be ready to leave a message regarding your situation. If your pet passed at home you will need to either keep you pet stored in a cool area until we can visit your home on our next business day OR transport your pet to the Animal ER of the Western Slope at 1660 North Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81501. We provide cremation services for the Animal ER so your pet will be safe with them until we are able to transport your pet to our facility for cremation. If you transport your pet elsewhere for holding and still wish they be cremated with us, please print off this form & take it with you. We will pick up your deceased pet from any clinic or hospital even if we don't have current arrangements to do so.
Your pet will remain in custody with the veterinary hospital or the Animal ER until our next business day. Please let the Animal ER know of any keepsakes you wish to have. If you have special keepsake wishes, it is imperative you contact us directly on our next business day so we can make arrangements for these keepsakes to be made. We will be gentle with your pet and believe they should be respected just as much in death as they are in life. Thank you for allowing us to help during this difficult time.
How do I choose a pet crematory?
We strictly adhere to the standards and the terminology of the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC) so your trust can be safely placed with us. Our facility has an open-door policy so you are welcome to visit our facility even without a prior appointment. If you would like a complete tour, our care coordinators will be honored to walk you through our facility.
Please view these standards that we are proud to uphold as a member of the IAOPCC.
What is the difference between a private cremation and individual cremations?
A private cremation means that there is only one pet in the cremation chamber and the cremated remains are returned to the client. A private cremation may include viewing of the cremation by the client during what we call an attended or witnessed cremation.
Individual cremations means that there are several pets in the cremation chamber at one time. These cremations are separated by trays, refractory bricks and/or space. Many people are led to believe that individual cremations are the same as a private cremation and this is not true.
What happens to my pet if I choose communal cremation?
Communal cremation is a choice for some pet parents when burial is not an option but yet it is not their wish to receive the cremated remains back. Pets communally cremated are not separated and their mixed ashes are scattered together at a chosen place. A different place is chosen each time a scattering is scheduled.
How can I be sure my pet is being returned to me?
We provide an unprecedented level of transparency regarding all of our operations, procedures, policies, and identification tracking system. Our tracking system traces your pet through every step of the cremation process which allows us to give you comfort, assurance and confidence in your pet's care during such a difficult time. First, proper identification is established before a pet is removed from a home, clinic or pet hospital. Secondly, a paper identification tag with your name as well as your pet’s name is placed with your pet and stays close to your pet at all times being placed outside the cremation unit during the cremation process. Thirdly, a numbered metal tag is assigned to your pet, recorded on their paper ID tag and accompanies your pet through the entire cremation process. This stainless steel metal tag will not be destroyed during the cremation so it can be found among the cremated remains.
Can I visit with my pet prior to cremation?
Yes, but we will need to know that the cremation experience needs to be delayed. A comfort room is available for family members that need additional closure or goodbye time, especially if they were not present at the time of death. This can be a comfortable, quiet place where you can say your very last goodbyes and feel resolved in your decision about choosing us to help with your pet's aftercare needs.
Can I attend or witness the cremation?
Absolutely, we have a viewing room specifically for individuals or families who wish to attend the cremation. This room helps offer comfort, closure and privacy regarding your pet’s cremation. You are also allowed on the crematory floor if you wish to be intimately involved with the experience.
When will my pet be returned to me?
Cremations are returned in about a week (7-10 days). Attended or witnesses cremations may go home the same day. Nevertheless, rest assured, as soon as your pet is ready to return home we will notify you as soon as possible.
We so appreciate your gentle, quiet, strong, professional way. Thank you for handling Cricket with dignity.
​
- Bob & Val Ickes, Grand Junction CO






