Question: What should I do if my pet dies at home?
Answer: Until decisions and preparations can be made, find the coldest part of your dwelling, such as the basement floor (away from the heater), garage floor, or in cold weather, an enclosed porch or trunk of your car. (Do NOT place the pet outside in an unprotected area). Lay a piece of plastic down first. Place newspaper on the plastic. Lay the pet directly on the newspaper, or, if you prefer, lay a blanket or towel down. Cover the pet with another blanket, towel or sheet.

Question: How long before I receive my pets’ cremains?
Answer: Under normal circumstances, you should receive the cremains within 2-4 days.

Question: Why should I choose Wheeler Petuary?
Answer: As a family owned and operated business, we provide individualized attention with gentle and compassionate care given to each pet and family.

Question: What should I do if my pet dies while at my veterinarian?
Answer: There is no hurry on making a decision. Most veterinary clinics or hospitals have cold storage where your pet can be kept for a day or two.

Question: Can I see my pet again?
Answer: If your pet dies at the veterinary hospital, you may view your pet there. Some clinics require someone to identify the pet.

Question: Is it normal to grieve over the loss of a pet?
Answer: It is just as normal to grieve over the loss of a pet as it is to grieve over the loss of a human. Not only is it normal, but is healthy to grieve. Suppressing grief causes more pain. Tears are an important part of accepting and working through the grief. Also repeat the pet’s name out loud. Remember the funny things he/she did. Bring back the special memories. The more you remember (no matter how painful it is) the better you will feel. Memories can be recalled frequently. They can never be worn out. Saying your final “goodbye’s” and planning your pet’s after-life care is an important part of accepting the loss. By allowing someone else to make the final plans you are denying the loss and grief will be prolonged. Your pet’s final resting place should be known to you and this could help reduce your pain.

Question: What is an urn?
Answer: An urn is a receptacle especially made to hold the cremated remains (cremains). Urns are available in many styles.

Question: Is there a pet memorial day?
Answer: The International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories has designated the Second Sunday of September as National Pet Memorial Day. Most IAOPCC member cemeteries observe Pet Memorial Day with special ceremonies and/or events.