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F.A.Q.
What is individual cremation?
At Pets at Peace we believe the sanctity of the cremation process is extremely important.
In an individual cremation, the remains of each pet is accompanied by a sequentially numbered stainless steel identification disc that will stay with and identify each pet throughout the cremation process. Pets are placed in individual compartments in the cremation unit. The pets are separated by physical barriers within the chamber and the location of each is recorded by the crematorium operator. At the end of the cremation process your pet's ID Disc number must match the same number on their file. This disc will be included with your pet's ashes. Our transportation and crematorium operations incorporate pet identification and tracking techniques to ensure all pet cremations are never compromised.
What is group or communal cremation?
In a group cremation, the remains of several pets are placed in the crematorium at one time. Following the cremation the ashes are intermingled. No ashes are returned to owners, therefore we do not offer this. This is the only type of service offered by Toronto Animal Services. The Toronto Humane Society no longer offers pet cremation services.
Can I be assured the ashes returned to me will be the ashes of my pet?
We are members of the Pet Loss Professionals Alliance and International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association, and as members we adhere to the strict code of ethics required by the PLPA and ICCFA.
Members of the PLPA recognize that we have special obligations to the pets, families and other businesses that we serve. As guardians of pets in death, we pledge:
* To honor the wishes of the family and to serve all families with respect, understanding and confidentiality.
* To protect and preserve all interment sites and relevant historical data entrusted to us.
* To be guided by the spirit and letter of all applicable laws and regulations set by governing bodies with jurisdiction over our activities in the ownership, management and operation of a funeral home, crematory, cemetery or related endeavor.
* To be an educational resource and guide in standards relating to final pet death care options for our client families as well as our process partners.
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. You can also provide a few personal items to be cremated with your pet. This may be a special toy, coat, flower, poem/note, picture, food treats etc. All keepsakes will remain with your pet. To better respect our environment and reduce emissions, we ask that you not include items such as foam bedding or plastic. Also, you may appreciate a lock of your pet's fur. (Please ask if you would like us to do this for you).
My pet had a metal plate implanted because of a broken bone/surgery. What happens to these during the cremation?
Most surgical steel implants including plates, screws and wire survive the cremation process. Please let us know if these should be returned to you with your pet's ashes. We will also remove and return leg bands from birds if requested.
Can I bring my pet to Pets at Peace?
Most definitely. You may transfer your pet from your home or vet clinic. For some people, providing some of the care and making the final journey with their pet can be a therapeutic step in the grieving process. Please call for an appointment as we may be away from our location attending to a family. There will be a reduction of $25.00 on all packages with this option.
What if I want something other than the urn that is provided with the cremation?
You can choose from a variety of urns for an additional charge or you may supply your own special urn.
Our pet passed away while we were on vacation and arrangements were made by our pet sitter or other family members. Are we able to see our pet again?
Everyone should have the opportunity to say goodbye to a cherished pet. Whether it's a few days or more, we can absolutely delay the cremation until your return. Let us know and we will discuss the final details with you.
We have other surviving pets in our home. How can we help them handle the loss and should we allow them to see the body?
Pets do grieve the loss of their buddy and understand death to a degree. Allowing the surviving pet to see and smell the body of their deceased friend does help them understand. Sometimes if this doesn't happen they mournfully search for them wondering where they have gone.
My veterinarian offers cremation, why wouldn’t I use them?
Unfortunately, a large number of pets are euthanized or die at a veterinarian’s office. The vet clinic usually only allow for once a week or once every two weeks for removal to the crematorium. Pets at Peace provides personal, immediate attention for your pet. We arrive at your home or veterinarian’s clinic and transfer to the crematorium the same day.
Hours of Operation
We are available 24 hours/7 days a week. Pet transfer hours are from 9am to 6pm, 7 days a week.
