Our Pet Cremation Process at Companions Haven

There are 2 main options. Cremation – you can arrange this through your vet or directly with a crematorium. Ashes can be scattered, kept in an urn or casket or buried. Burial – you can do this yourself if you are able. Legally, you may only bury your pet in the garden where they lived. In the local area, pet cemeteries are rare, but we would suggest Haycombe or Memorial Woodlands.

We understand how overwhelming this time can feel, especially when you’re faced with decisions you may never have had to make before. At Companions Haven, we offer individual cremations, where your pet is cared for in their own private compartment. After the cremation, their ashes are carefully collected and returned to you. We also work closely with trusted veterinary practices, which may offer communal cremation as a more affordable option. In these cases, pets are treated with the same dignity and respect, but are cremated alongside others, and their ashes are laid to rest in our memorial garden. If you’re unsure which option feels right, we’re always here to gently guide you.

This is one of the most important questions you can ask and we take it very seriously. With an individual cremation, your pet is cremated entirely on their own. Our cremation chambers are thoroughly cleaned between each service, and we follow strict identification procedures throughout.

We promise that the ashes you receive are only those of your beloved pet.

Yes, we are proud to be one of the founding members of the Association of Private Pet Cemeteries and Crematoria (APPCC). This organisation sets the highest standards in the UK and provides independent inspection and a strict code of conduct. Choosing an APPCC member gives you peace of mind that your pet is being cared for with integrity and respect.

The cost of an individual cremation depends on your pet’s size and the options you choose, such as urns or keepsakes. We know cost can be a concern at an already difficult time, so we’re always happy to talk things through clearly and gently - no pressure, just honest guidance.

Yes, absolutely. We have a peaceful garden room where you can spend quiet time saying goodbye to your pet. There is no rush - we’ll give you as much time and space as you need.

You can, if it feels important to you (but we don't recommend it). Instead, many families choose to say goodbye in our calm, comforting surroundings and remember their pet in that way. If you would like to be present, we will support you and carefully explain what to expect beforehand.

The cremation itself usually takes a few hours, depending on your pet’s size. We will always keep you informed and let you know when your pet’s ashes will be ready to return home.

We aim to return your pet’s ashes to you as quickly as possible, usually within a few days. If you need them sooner, please let us know - we’ll always do our best to accommodate your wishes.