Frequently Asked Questions

1What is the difference between Private and Communal Cremation?

With Private Cremation only one pet's body is present in the cremation chamber during the cremation procedure and the cremated remains of that pet are available for return to the owner. At Pet Heaven we only offer TRUE Private Cremation.

As with Private Cremation your pet is gently placed into the chamber for the cremation process. However, with Communal Cremation multiple pets are cremated together without any form of separation/segregation and thus these commingled cremated remains are not available for return to their owners.

2Should I choose private or communal cremation and what should I do with the cremains?

Firstly, cremains are only available for you to keep if you choose Private Cremation . With Communal Cremation, pets are cremated with other pets and so individual cremains are not available.

Communal Cremation is an important and final decision so if you are unsure of what you want to do with the cremains you may want to choose Private Cremation . With Private Cremation you don't have to make any decisions today and may revisit your wishes for your beloved pet when the pain has eased a little with time.

3What if the animal hospital uses another provider?

If your pet passes at an animal hospital and they or your veterinarian uses another provider you can still request that we at Pet Heaven be the ones to look after your pet. Simply instruct the hospital to contact us and we will take care of everything else. We can also forward your Final Wishes Form directly to them on your behalf.

4How do I know that I am receiving my pet's ashes back?

Here at Pet Heaven we use a tracking and identification process, which we check and double check to ensure that the cremains you receive are those of your beloved pet.

5I've heard that pets are kept in garbage bags in the freezer. Is that true?

Sadly, there are few regulations for the aftercare of pets. At Pet Heaven we believe that garbage bags should be for trash only. All pets placed in our trust are transferred to our facility with care and honour. Small pets are transported in a basket wrapped within a blanket and larger pets are blanketed on a stretcher.

All cremations are performed on-site at our Calgary office by our family of dedicated pet parents on either the day that they enter our care or the next and so we have no need for freezers.

You can count on us always, to be transparent and open about our processes and prices.

6What if my pet dies at home?
Firstly, we are so sorry for the loss of your beloved pet. We are temporarily unavailable to provide transfer or delivery services from 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM, but will respond to all requests at 8:00 AM the following day to make arrangements for you. Some advice for you if you are having to deal with the sudden loss during these hours... * Keep your pet on some padding like a blanket or towel & covered * Keep your pet in a cool place We are here for you & will respond first thing in the morning & help your family through this difficult time with the respect & dignity your pet deserves.
7How long will it take for me to receive the cremains of my pet back?
Pet Heaven will have your pets' cremated remains ready for you in 24-48 hours. We respond immediately and will transfer your pet into our care right away.
8Why does it take some veterinarians so long to return cremains?
Many veterinarians only schedule pick-ups once a week and by necessity animals must be stored in freezers. For a list of our veterinary partners whom we visit as often as needed Click Here.
9Can I see where my pet will be cremated?
Yes, we would love to have you visit. Please be sure to call ahead so we can make arrangements to meet you. We don't want to miss you if we are out helping another family and not in the office.
10Should I have a memorial service for my pet?

Every family is unique and will choose to celebrate the life of their pet in different ways. At Pet Heaven we are here to help you decide the perfect choices for you and your family.

Our dedicated staff will work with your family to create a memorial that will fit all of your needs. We will help you with cremation choices, private family goodbyes, choosing an urn or keepsake and designing a memorial service to honour your faithful friend. We will also help you with creating a lasting tribute for Pet Heaven's Memory Lane where our families share pictures and favorite stories about their treasured pets.

If you wish, we can help you make prearrangements so that we and you have them on hand when the time comes. If this interests you please fill out our Pet Heaven Final Wishes After-care Form.