If you are unable to prearrange your pet’s funeral service, in cases such as accident or other unexpected death, many pet cemeteries do have financial arrangements and payment plans available. Taking advantage of these plans, if pre-need arrangements are not possible, prevents you from being forced to decide on your pet’s final resting place based solely on cost. Even if payment arrangements are not advertised, ask about them before assuming they are not available.

Do not be afraid to include your children in your pet’s funeral arrangements. Many times children have a particular idea about how they would like to see their pet memorialized, but may be concerned about upsetting you by discussing it. Let them know that you would like their input, but do not insist on it if they feel uncomfortable discussing it.

Do not be concerned about allowing your children to be present during any funeral service or during an ash-scattering ceremony. The death of a pet is usually the first experience a child has with death. It should be as informative and as free of stress as possible, especially if the child was very close to the pet.