Frequently Asked Questions

What is pet aquamation?

Pet aquamation is a gentle and eco-friendly process that uses water instead of fire to return a pet body back to mother nature. For more information about pet aquamation, please click the link below.

What is the benefit of pet aquamation?

Pet aquamation offers a gentle, eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. It allows for a peaceful and respectful farewell to your beloved companion while minimizing environmental impact. In particular, pet aquamation:

– Saves over 90% energy consumption when compared to flame-based cremation.

– No direct emissions of harmful greenhouse gases or mercury.

– No burning of fossil fuels.

– 20% more ash remains could be returned to the family.

How long will it take to get my pet’s ashes back?

The aftercare package of your pet will be ready for pick up within 7 – 10 business days. If you order custom services and products, such as engraving services, customized embroidered products, statues, etc. then additional business days may be required. We will keep you updated about the status of your package via email.

How do I know if the ashes I am getting back really belong to my pet?

We maintain a strict chain of custody and tracking procedure to ensure your pet is treated appropriately. A unique steel ID tag is created for each pet. Your pet’s steel ID tag will stay with them throughout the process. After aquamation, the tag will be cleaned and attached to the bag holding your pet’s ashes.

My pet had surgical hardware in their body. Can I take the hardware back after the aquamation?

Pieces of surgical hardware (plates, rods, nails, pins, screws, and sometimes wires) made of material will not decompose through the aquamation process and will remain. If we find any remains of surgical hardware after aquamation, we will place it in a separate plastic bag with the pet’s ID number. The hardware remaining will be returned to you if you have indicated on the Authorization Form that you would like to receive the hardware back.

If my pet has already been cremated, can I still order urns and/or customized memorial products from Tails Farewell?

Absolutely. Please contact us through the website, and we will help you place the order for your selected urns and/or memorial products.

Can I bring my deceased pet directly to Tails Farewell?

Absolutely. Please ensure you contact us to schedule a private appointment before you come, and we will be prepared for you and your beloved pet(s) upon arrival.

Do you accept pets other than cats and dogs?

Yes, at Tails Farewell, we warmly welcome all types of pets, including but not limited to birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles, and small mammals. While we strive to accommodate all pets, it’s important to note that for some smaller animals, such as some kinds of birds and reptiles, we may not be able to return ashes due to their minimal bone weight. Nevertheless, we ensure that each beloved companion receives the same dignified and respectful farewell.

My pet passed away and I am not sure what I should do.

If your pet passes away at home, stay calm and follow the following steps:

1. Contact your veterinary clinics or nearby emergency pet hospitals as soon as possible.

Your veterinary clinics or the pet hospital will help you confirm your pet is deceased. If your veterinary clinic or the pet hospital is one of our customers, there is no need to contact us. They will notify us about your pet and your preferred final arrangements.

If the clinic is not part of our network, you can inform them of your desire to choose Tails Farewell for your pet’s aftercare. You may call us or ask your veterinary clinic to call us. We will handle the gentle transfer of your pet from the clinic or any emergency centre. You are welcome to visit our facility for arrangements or contact us through the website.

2. If you don’t have a vet, you can also contact us directly.

You can message us through our website. We will get back to you as soon as possible (if this happens in the middle of the night, we will get back to you at the beginning of the next day) to arrange the service for you.

3. Lay a towel under your pet’s tail and mouth.

This will protect your flooring and furnishings. If your pet passes away with their legs fully extended, gently fold them closer to the body before stiffness sets in. This will make the body easier to handle later.

4. Keep the pet in a cool and dry place.

Ideally, wrap them in a few plastic bags and relocate them to a cool, dry environment, such as on a cold stone floor, in a garage, or in a utility room.

5. Reach out for support and help.

Losing a beloved pet is never easy, especially if they pass away at home while you are alone. Reach out to a friend or family member for support during this challenging time.

What happens if my pet passes in the middle of the night?

If your cherished pet passes away during the night, remain calm and reach out to us through our website. We will respond promptly at the beginning of the next day. If you cannot keep your pet at home for an extended period, contact the nearest emergency veterinary clinic to arrange temporary custody for your pet.

Do you provide services for pet owners who live outside your immediate area?

Yes, we understand that losing a beloved pet can be a difficult experience regardless of location. While our primary service areas are Markham, Richmond Hill, Toronto and Vaughan, we also strive to accommodate pet owners who live outside our immediate area.

Please reach out to us directly to discuss your specific needs, and we will do our best to assist you during this challenging time.

Do you offer pickup services for deceased pets?

Yes, we do offer pickup services for deceased pets from veterinary clinics within our service area. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and dignified process during this difficult time. However, we do not offer pickup services from residential addresses at this time.

If your pet passes away at home, we recommend contacting your local veterinary clinic who may be able to assist you with arrangements for transportation to our facility. Alternatively, you can bring your pet directly to us for a private appointment.

What should I do if my pet is diagnosed with cancer?

If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to understand the treatment options and prognosis. While some pets respond well to treatment, others may not. If you find yourself facing the difficult decision of end-of-life care, Tails Farewell is here to support you. We offer compassionate pet funeral and memorial services to help you honour your beloved companion with the dignity they deserve.

How can I manage my pet’s chronic kidney disease?

Managing chronic kidney disease in pets involves regular veterinary check-ups, a special diet, and sometimes medication or fluid therapy. Despite the best care, kidney disease can eventually lead to end-of-life decisions. When that time comes, Tails Farewell provides a range of services, including pet aquamation and memorial options, to help you through this challenging time and to commemorate your pet’s life.

What steps should I take if my pet has been diagnosed with heart disease?

After a heart disease diagnosis, work closely with your veterinarian to manage your pet’s condition with medication, diet changes, and regular monitoring. Unfortunately, heart disease can progress and lead to tough decisions regarding your pet’s quality of life. Tails Farewell is here to assist with compassionate end-of-life planning, offering personalized funeral services to ensure your pet’s memory is cherished forever.

Can I aquamate any clothing or toys with my pet?

Due to the gentle nature of aquamation, we are unable to aquamate any clothing or toys with your beloved companion. The water based process is unable to break down inorganic material. Any clothing or toys that are brought alongside your pet will be returned to you unless you request otherwise.