Cremation Questions

If I choose cremation, how soon can I expect to get my pet’s cremated remains back?

Typically all Private Cremations are returned to your veterinarian’s office within a week from the time they were picked up. Most often they are returned within 2-4 business days. Special arrangements can also be made to pick up your pet’s cremated remains at Cedar Hills’ business offices, if you prefer.

What type of system does Cedar Hills have to identify the animals that are received?

Immediately upon receipt, every pet is given their own secured identification card, which contains their name, client’s name, veterinary clinic name, breed, approximate weight, color markings, service selected, cremation log number, as well as the date, time, location, and agent picking up.  This card accompanies your pet from the moment they are picked up at the veterinarian’s office, throughout the cremation process. Much of this information is also recorded in Cedar Hills Private Cremation Receipt & Return Log upon the release of each pet to Cedar Hills.

When the cremation process is completed, the cremated remains are placed in the cedar box or urn for return.  Each vessel is placed in their return bag, and clearly marked with the pet’s name, both inside their chest and on their personalized Certificate of Cremation.

When each cremation is returned to the veterinarian’s office for pickup, each pet’s name, location of delivery, and return date is marked on Cedar Hills’ Private Cremation Receipt & Return Log, which is then signed by the receiving pet professional. At Cedar Hills our integrity is above reproach.

Can Cedar Hills handle large breed dogs as well as small farm animals?

Yes. Up to 300 lbs.

Am I permitted to observe the cremation?

Yes. Cedar Hills does offer what is termed a Cremation Viewing for an additional charge. What this entails is that the pet holder makes an appointment to be at Cedar Hills at a specific time and date. Upon your arrival, the pet is placed into a temporary casket and you are able to spend time with your pet in our viewing room. When you are ready, you may follow the pet to the crematory and witness the pet going into the unit. Then when the cremation process is complete, normally between 2 to 5 hours depending on the size of the pet, you depart with your pet’s cremated remains.

What kind of records does Cedar Hills keep for Private Cremation and how long are they retained?

Cedar Hills keeps records of each pet’s Identification Card and/or Individual Cremation Order, the Cremation Log, and the Private Cremation Receipt & Return Logs for five years.