How to Start a Pet Crematory
When a beloved pet dies or must be put down, pet owners not wanting to leave their remains with a veterinarian may elect to bury or cremate their pet. A pet crematorium business provides a dignified way for owners to keep their pets near, regardless of relocation. If you are considering starting a pet crematorium, garner work experience first by working in a cemetery or crematorium under a licensed funeral director.
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Things You'll Need
- License
- Insurance
- Pet crematory
- Commercial vehicle
- Containers
- Urns
- Brochures
Instructions
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Obtain the necessary licenses, insurance and permits. Contact your Secretary of State to obtain a license to operate your pet crematorium. Generally, you must include the address of your crematorium, your business name and a summary of relevant experience working in a cemetery or crematorium. Contact your local Environmental Protection Agency to learn if a permit is required for animal disposal. Purchase liability, workers' compensation and commercial auto insurance.
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Purchase a pet crematory with a burn rate and capacity that can accommodate your clientele and a truck and enclosed trailer that is large enough to accommodate the animals your crematory with handle. Many pet crematoriums alleviate the burden on the owner by picking up the pet from the veterinarian or home and taking it to the crematorium. However, you should also allow owners the option of delivering their pet.
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Purchase cleaning supplies; bags or containers for storing the ashes upon cremation; cremation identification tags; and decorative urns or lawn markers to sell to owners. Design cremation authorization forms and cremation certificates with detailed information about the deceased pet, to be provided to each owner upon cremation.
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Offer a variety of services to accommodate your client's needs. These could include 24-hour service, a website tribute, support group connection services, memorial service, engraving, home delivery, private cremations, viewing cremations and communal cremations. Additionally, owners may prefer that you dispose of the ashes. Set your price list accordingly.
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Establish relationships with veterinarians and local animal welfare organizations in your local area. Provide them with brochures detailing your commitment to providing a dignified method for handling and cremating pets, information about the services you provide and a price list. Join organizations such as the Pet Loss Professionals Alliance.
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Tips & Warnings
Hire compassionate employees who love animals.
