Pet Aftercare & Memorial Options | Vet in the House

The transition after a pet passes is a deeply personal time. Dr. Bongiovanni believes that honoring a pet’s memory includes providing a dignified, peaceful final resting place.

She is here to help you navigate these choices with compassion and clarity. Whether you prefer a traditional burial, a private cremation, or an eco-friendly alternative, Dr. Bongiovanni ensures your pet is treated with the utmost respect from the moment she enters your home until the final arrangements are complete.

Your Aftercare Options

1. Pet Remains with Family

For many families, keeping a pet close at home provides the greatest sense of peace.

  • Home Burial: If you choose to bury your pet on your private property, please consult with your municipality regarding local regulations on burial. Dr. Bongiovanni can provide additional guidance on how to do so safely.
  • Self-Arrangement: You may also choose to keep your pet’s remains while you finalize personal arrangements with a specific cemetery or crematorium.

2. Cremation Services

If you select cremation, Dr. Lisa Bongiovanni will personally and carefully transport your pet after they pass.

  • Private Cremation: This is for owners who wish to have their pet’s ashes returned. Each pet is privately cremated so that you receive back only your pet’s remains. Your pet will be returned to you in a cherry wooden urn, though permanent custom urns are available upon request.
  • Attended Cremation: If you wish to be present at the time of cremation, this can be arranged. While Dr. Bongiovanni can explain how this process works, please note that viewings are scheduled directly through the crematory (Pet Meadows).
  • Communal Cremation: Your pet is cremated simultaneously with other pets. The remains are not returned, but are instead gently scattered in a dignified manner.

3. Aquamation (Eco-Friendly Aftercare)

Dr. Bongiovanni offers Aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis) as a gentle, water-based alternative to traditional fire cremation.

  • The Process: This method uses water and alkalinity to accelerate the natural decomposition process, resulting in a quiet and respectful farewell.
  • Environmental Benefits: Aquamation is an eco-friendly choice with no direct greenhouse gas emissions and a significantly lower carbon footprint.
  • Remains: Just as with private cremation, you receive your pet’s remains back in an urn. The ashes are typically finer and lighter in color than those from fire-based cremation.

4. Formal Burial

Formal burial provides a permanent, visitable resting place for your pet. Dr. Bongiovanni can coordinate these details for you:

  • Full Burial: This includes a casket and a granite marker.
  • Cemetery Care: A deed restriction and maintenance fees ensure the permanent continuation and care of the cemetery grounds.
  • Cremain Plots: Smaller plots are available to accommodate cremated remains and a granite marker, providing a dedicated space for reflection.

Personal Guidance in a Difficult Time

Choosing the right aftercare is a final act of devotion. Dr. Bongiovanni is available to discuss these options in detail to ensure the choice aligns with your values and your pet’s legacy.

“My goal is to handle every detail of your pet’s transition with the same love and care I would give my own. I am here to support you in making the decision that feels right for your family.”  — Dr. Bongiovanni