FAQs

What is cremation?

The cremation of a pet is a traditional, respectful, clean, and rapid method of reducing a loved one’s remains. A pet is gently laid to rest on the hearth of a crematory chamber and is then exposed to high temperatures that reduce the matter into cremated remains

What is the difference between private, individual, and communal pet cremation?

Private Cremation— A cremation procedure during which only one animal’s body is present in the cremation unit during the cremation process.

Individual Cremation— A cremation procedure during which more than one pet’s body is present in the cremation chamber and the cremated remains of specific pets are to be returned.  Some form of separation is used such as space or bricks.

Communal Cremation— A cremation procedure where multiple pet’s bodies are cremated together without any form of separation. These commingled cremated remains are not returned.

Can I bring my pet directly to Gateway?

Yes, you may bring your pet directly to us. Please call so that we are prepared for your arrival. You can also arrange for us to bring your companion into our care directly from your veterinary hospital.

My pet passed away and I am not sure what to do now?

If your pet passes away at your veterinarian’s hospital ask who they choose for cremation services. If your veterinary clinic is one of our customers, there is no need to contact us. They will notify us about your pet and your final arrangement wishes.

If they do not use Gateway, simply let them know you have chosen for your pet’s aftercare needs. You may call us or ask your veterinarian to call us. We will bring your pet into our care from your veterinarian’s office or at any of the emergency or specialty centers and transport your pet to our Memorial Center.  You are welcome to come to our center to complete the arrangements or contact us by phone.

If I choose cremation, how soon can I get my pet’s cremated remains back?

Depending on the type of service you choose, our return times may vary. If you choose our witness cremation service, you can be present during the cremation and leave with your beloved pet within a couple of hours. Please contact us for more details.

How do I know that I am getting the right cremated remains back?

This is a common question, and rest assured that your beloved pet is tracked throughout the entire aftercare process. At Gateway, we use a proprietary tracking system called Paws e-Track™, which tracks your loved one through the pet aftercare journey. Your pet is assigned a unique identification number that is electronically scanned at multiple points through the aftercare process, from your veterinarian’s office and throughout our facility. At Gateway, we offer 100% traceability and transparency.

How much does cremation cost?

The cost will vary depending service you choose. Please call for additional information. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

Do you provide euthanasia services?

We do not provide this service, as only a professional veterinarian may euthanize a pet. We can, however, provide you with several referrals; we have reliable partners in many cities that offer humane pet euthanasia after all other wellness options have been exhausted. Please always feel free to call us for any additional help.

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

If your beloved pet passes in the middle of the night, please call or email Client Care and we will get back to you at the beginning of the next business day.  If you are not comfortable keeping your loved at your home for an extended period of time, please contact your nearest Emergency Veterinary Clinic to make arrangements with them to drop off your cherished pet.

Do your customer care representatives offer any recommendations/suggestions on what to do/how to care for the body until arrangements can be made?

If you are keeping your pet at home until arrangements can be made, please keep them cool.  Wrap your pet in blankets, and place them in a cool area of your home.  If keeping your loved one at home is not possible until an appointment can be made, contact a local emergency veterinary clinic as they may be better able to hold your beloved companion until an appointment with Gateway can be made.