Frequently Asked Questions

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• How Much Ashes Will I Get Back? What If I Think I Should Have Received More or Less?

  The ashes you receive are composed solely of your pet’s processed bones following cremation. The amount of ashes returned is determined by bone density and structure, rather than total body weight.

  Many people assume that a pet’s body weight directly correlates with the amount of ashes they will receive, but this is not always accurate. For example:

  • A larger pet with more fat and less bone mass may produce fewer ashes than expected.
  • Two pets of the same weight may yield different amounts of ashes due to variations in bone density.

  This is the same for human cremation as well. On average, the ashes returned will weigh between 2-5% of the pet’s total body weight, but this is only an estimate.

  If you have any concerns about the amount of ashes you receive, please reach out to us, and we will be happy to discuss the process further.

• My pet’s paw print doesn’t look like what I expected. How can I be sure it’s theirs?

   

  We understand how meaningful your pet’s paw print is, and we want to assure you that every keepsake is made with care and accuracy. We maintain a strict tracking process throughout every step to ensure each paw print and impression belongs to your pet.

  

  That said, paw prints can look different depending on the method used:

  • The ink print is made by gently applying ink to your pet’s paw pads and pressing it onto card stock, similar to the way y

  • our footprint might look after stepping onto tile after a shower.

  • The clay impression requires a firmer press to capture detail in the clay. We also try to include the nails, which can slightly spread the paw and change its appearance, much like the impression your foot might leave behind in wet sand.

  Both are created with love and intention, and while they may not look exactly alike, each one is a unique reflection of your pet.

• The paw engraved on the top of the urn isn’t the exact size of my pet’s paw — why?

  The engraving is absolutely your pet’s paw print, but the size may vary slightly. Here’s why: we start by taking your pet’s paw print using ink on card stock. That image is then scanned and gently cleaned up This just means removing things like stray fur or dirt specks that would otherwise look like scratches when engraved into the wood.

  To make sure the paw print fits nicely alongside any custom engraving, we may need to resize it slightly. Either making it smaller to fit or a little larger so it looks balanced. But rest assured, the image engraved is your pet’s unique paw print. Learn more here.

• What happens if my pet dies at home?

  If your pet passes away at home, there is no immediate rush to take action. Many families choose to spend some time with their pet before making aftercare arrangements.

  Here’s what you can do:

  • Keep your pet in a cool, quiet place (such as a tiled floor or a room with air conditioning).
  • If you wish to wait a few hours or overnight, you may place them on a towel or blanket in a cool area.
  • Call Monarch Pet Memorial Services when you’re ready, and we will arrange gentle, respectful transportation from your home.

  Need immediate assistance? Call us anytime to arrange pickup.

• How long can I keep my pet before sending them to the crematory?

  There is no rush, but it’s important to keep your pet in a cool place if you plan to wait more than a few hours. We recommend calling us as soon as you’re ready so we can guide you based on your situation.

• How will I know I am getting my own pet's ashes back?

  We follow strict identification and tracking procedures to ensure that every pet is handled with care and dignity.

  • Each pet receives a unique identification tag that follows them through the entire process.
  • Private cremation ensures your pet is cremated individually, and only their ashes are returned to you.
  • We use Wings Tracker Software to provide full transparency and accuracy.

  We take our responsibility very seriously, and you can trust that your pet’s ashes are returned to you with the highest level of care and integrity.

• What is the difference between Fire Cremation and Aquamation?

  Both fire cremation and Aquamation (also called water cremation) reduce a pet’s remains to ashes, but they use different processes:

  • Fire Cremation – Uses intense heat and flame to reduce remains to ash.
  • Aquamation – A gentle, water-based process that mimics natural decomposition, using alkaline hydrolysis to break down tissue.
  • Aquamation is an eco-friendly option, using 90% less energy than flame cremation and producing no emissions. The resulting remains are whiter, softer, and have more volume than ashes from fire cremation.
• How will I know it's time to say goodbye?

  Deciding when to say goodbye is never easy, but there is rarely a “perfect” time—only a kindest time. Some signs that it may be time include:

  • More bad days than good days
  • Pain that cannot be managed with medication
  • Loss of interest in food, play, or interaction
  • Difficulty standing, walking, or breathing

  We encourage pet parents to talk with their veterinarian and trust their instincts when making this decision.

• How can I get a copy of my ink print?

  Every pet who receives private cremation at Monarch automatically gets an ink paw print as part of their memorial package. If you would like a digital copy, we can scan and email it to you upon request.

• How are the urns engraved?

  We use precision engraving machines to etch your pet’s name and a paw impression onto the urn’s surface. Each urn is crafted with care and personalization, making it a unique tribute to your pet’s memory.

  Our facility is equipped with two engraving machines, allowing us to create customized keepsakes for every family.

• What if I don’t want the ashes back?

  If you do not wish to receive your pet’s ashes, you can choose communal cremation, in which your pet is respectfully cremated with other pets, and the ashes are scattered at sea.

  Families who select communal cremation can still request paw prints, nose prints, or fur clippings as keepsakes before the cremation process.

• Can toys and/or blankets be aquamated with my pet?

   

  

  No, only organic materials (such as the pet’s body and natural fur) can go through the Aquamation process. Since blankets, toys, and collars contain synthetic materials, they cannot be included.

  If you’d like, we can place them with your pet before cremation for a final farewell, but they will not go through the process.

• I buried my pet in the past but now want them cremated—Is this possible?

  In some cases, it may be possible to exhume and cremate a pet that was previously buried, but it depends on how long ago they were laid to rest and the burial conditions.

  • If your pet was buried more than 6 months ago, the natural decomposition process is likely too far along for cremation to be possible.
  • If your pet was buried in a plastic container, their body may still be preserved, making cremation an option.
  • If you are unsure, we recommend consulting with us or a professional to assess the feasibility of cremation.
• How can I bury my pet at home?

  Choosing to bury your pet at home is a deeply personal decision that allows you to keep them close in a place filled with love and memories. However, before proceeding, it’s important to check local laws and regulations to ensure that home burial is permitted in your area.

  Things to Consider Before Burial

  • Check Local Laws – Some cities or counties have restrictions on pet burial. Call your local animal services or city office to confirm the rules.
  •  Call Before You Dig – Contact your utility service providers to check for underground cable, gas, or electric lines to avoid potential hazards.
  •  Choose a Peaceful Location – Select a spot that is safe from future construction or landscaping changes.

   

  Tips for Home Burial

  • Dig Deep Enough – The hole should be deep enough to allow at least 3 feet of dirt to cover your pet, helping to prevent disturbance from wildlife.
  • Plan Ahead – Digging a hole can be physically challenging, especially in areas with rocky or clay soil. If possible, start preparing early.
  • Wrap Your Pet Respectfully – A towel, blanket, or biodegradable container can provide a natural and gentle way to lay them to rest.
  • Add Personal Touches – Some families choose to include flowers, notes, or small keepsakes in the grave as a final tribute.
  • Mark the Grave – A garden stone, engraved plaque, or planted tree can serve as a beautiful and lasting memorial.

  Other Memorial Options

  If home burial isn’t the right choice for you, consider:

  • Cremation & Ash Scattering – Keep their ashes in an urn or scatter them in a meaningful place.
  • Memorial Paw Prints & Keepsakes – Capture a paw or nose print as a lasting tribute.
  • Pet Cemeteries – Some families prefer a dedicated pet burial ground with maintenance and a marked headstone.

  If you’d like to explore other options, Monarch Pet Memorial Services is here to help.

• What about using a pet cemetery?

  Some families prefer pet cemeteries as a burial option. Pet cemeteries provide dedicated resting places where families can visit and honor their pet.

  • Some cemeteries offer individual burial plots, headstones, and maintenance services.
  • Others provide group burials or memorial gardens.
    If you are considering this option, we recommend researching local pet cemeteries to find one that fits your needs.

Still Have Questions?