Losing a pet, no matter how big or small, is like losing a beloved member of the family. If you’ve recently lost a bird, you might be wondering what your options are. Unlike dogs or cats, there isn’t a lot of information on how to handle this type of pet cremation or burial. The good news is that it’s a very straightforward process, and you can honor your beloved bird with the proper sendoff.
Jump ahead to these sections:
- How Does Pet Bird Cremation Work?
- How Much Does Pet Bird Cremation Typically Cost?
- How Can You Find a Pet Crematory Near You?
- What Can You Do With Your Pet Bird’s Ashes After Cremation?
- Types of Urns for a Pet Bird’s Ashes
- Types of Urn Jewelry for a Pet Bird’s Ashes
In this guide, we’ll go in-depth to explain the role of pet bird cremation. How does pet birth cremation work, and what does it cost? Finally, where can you find urns specifically for this type of cremation? The more prepared you are, the easier it is to make an informed decision about your pet’s final resting place.
How Does Pet Bird Cremation Work?
First, how does pet bird cremation work? The actual cremation process is similar to that of humans. The body is prepared first by removing anything the pet might be wearing (collar, leash, harness, etc). Next, the deceased is placed in a cremation chamber which heats to over 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit over the course of over an hour.
Finally, the cremated remains (cremains) are removed from the cremation chamber. Any large pieces of bones or other fragments are ground down into a fine dust. This is what you place in the cremation urn, and you receive these ashes back as a memento of your pet.
However, there are a few different types of cremation for pets. While humans are only cremated alone, there are several options depending on your wishes and budget. These include:
- Private cremation: A private cremation is what it sounds like. Your bird is cremated privately, and you keep its ashes. This is the standard option at most animal crematoriums.
- Individual cremation: WIth individual cremation, the pets are kept in semi-private partitions. The ashes are mostly separate, but there might be some mixing.
- Communal cremation: Additionally, you can opt for communal cremation. In this case, your pet is cremated with other pets at the same time. You don’t get to keep the ashes, or if you do, they’re mixed with other pets. This is the cheapest choice.
- Witness cremation: Finally, witness cremation costs an extra fee. With this, you can view the cremation process. You might need to search to find a crematorium that offers this, and it’s not always common.
In some cases, you’ll drop your pet off at the crematorium yourself. In some places, you might find a vet or animal service that picks your pet up from your home. Again, this depends on where you live and what type of cremation you choose.
How Much Does Pet Bird Cremation Typically Cost?
Now that you know how pet bird cremation works, how much does it cost? Again, the cost depends on your area as well as the type of cremation you choose. The most affordable option (communal cremation) begins at $30 and goes upwards to $250 for private cremation.
This doesn’t take into consideration the price of a funeral, memorial service, or any memorial products. The cost of pet cremation depends on the average costs near you. Some cities are more expensive than others. On the other hand, some crematoriums might even offer this service for free.
If you’re concerned about the cost, don’t be afraid to shop around. Crematoriums are required to be upfront about their pricing. There should never be any confusion or hidden fees. If you’re looking for the lowest-cost option, call multiple places near you to find the right deal. Since birds are generally smaller pets, they are less expensive to cremate compared to other animals.
Finally, many crematories charge what’s known as a transfer fee. This is because crematoriums operate separately from vet offices, who coordinate cremations. To return the ashes to the vet for the owner to pick up, there might be an additional fee. Again, this is something you can ask about upfront.
How Can You Find a Pet Crematory Near You?
If you’re ready to find a pet crematory near you, there are a lot of different avenues to take. The best option is usually to contact your bird’s vet as soon as possible after their death. This should be done within the first two days to avoid decomposition. Vets are familiar with the cremation options in your area, and many can coordinate all of this on your behalf.
Alternatively, you can contact your local animal control or shelter. Many cities have their own animal removal service for deceased animals. Some cities even do this for free, though you likely won’t have the ashes returned to you.
Another option for those who wish to handle things on their own is to do a quick internet search. If you search “pet cremation” followed by your city, you should find many options. This is likely going to be more affordable than going through a vet, but it might also involve transferring the body yourself. It all depends on your comfort level. When in doubt, consult your vet about the best option in your area.
What Can You Do With Your Pet Bird’s Ashes After Cremation?
After cremation, there are a lot of things you can do with your pet bird’s ashes. Your bird was a member of your family, so it’s only right to honor their memory in the way that feels like a good fit for them.
Scatter the ashes
Since birds are a symbol for freedom, it only makes sense to scatter their ashes free to the wind. Taking the ashes to a favorite park, lake, or nature area is a beautiful tribute. However, always review local laws about the property before releasing ashes.
Bury the ashes
Alternatively, you can bury your pet’s ashes. This is something that isn’t always legal in every state, so be sure to check local rules. If you’re burying the ashes on private property, however, like in a backyard, it’s usually fine. You can plan the ashes near a favorite tree, garden, or somewhere special.
Grow a memorial tree
Another beautiful way to create something new from your bird’s legacy is to grow a memorial tree. Bio Urns are the best way to bring your beloved pet’s memory to life through a real-life tree. With 50 tree options, there’s something perfect for you.
Get a tattoo
A unique, untraditional option for bird lovers is to get a tattoo. Some tattoo artists are comfortable mixing pet’s ashes in the tattoo ink, creating a stunning tribute you can hold close for the rest of your life.
Paint a portrait
Lastly, memorial portraits are created using ashes from your pet mixed with artistic mediums. Perfect for painters, artists, and those who like to express themselves, painting a portrait of your bird keeps them close within your home. This is a memento you’ll hold onto forever.
Types of Urns for a Pet Bird’s Ashes
With urns for ashes coming in all shapes and sizes, it’s no surprise there are urns for pet bird’s ashes as well. These pet birds are as unique as your bird, and they keep their memory alive.
Memorial bird urns
For bird-inspired urns, Memorials has a lot of options. These are priced under $100, and you can customize an engraving in honor of your bird. Some options are personalizable, including photos or special colors.
Etsy
The creator marketplace Etsy has long been a great choice when it comes to creative urns. Search handmade creations or request something completely unique. Perfect for pets of all shapes and sizes, there’s a reason so many choose Etsy over traditional retailers.
Amazon
Did you know the world’s largest online retailer is also a great place to find urns? Ranging in all styles, shapes, and sizes, Amazon is a one-stop-shop for urns for pets. You can even find some covered with Prime free shipping.
Perfect Memorials
Lastly, Perfect Memorials has been a specialist in pet urns for a long time. With both traditional and biodegradable urns, this is a special way to honor your bird’s memory no matter your budget.
Types of Urn Jewelry for a Pet Bird’s Ashes
For those who prefer to wear their pet’s ashes close to their hearts, there is also urn jewelry. These evoke the memory of your bird while also staying discreet.
Urn necklace
The first option is an urn necklace. This is a vial that has space for ashes within it. By placing the ashes within the necklace, you have a part of your beloved bird with you always. Some of these are discreet, looking like normal jewelry, while others are more obvious. You can find many bird urn necklaces on Etsy.
Memorial diamond
If you’re less concerned about your budget, a high-end option is to turn your bird’s ashes into a memorial diamond. This uses a pressure process similar to how diamonds are made in nature. Your pet’s ashes are transformed into a beautiful, stunning diamond you can wear forever.
Keychain
If you don’t wear jewelry, a practical alternative is a memorial keychain. This is a way to hold your bird’s ashes close no matter where you go. Urn keychains come in all shapes and sizes, and there are many shapes specifically to represent different birds.
Honor Your Bird’s Memory
No matter the method you choose to honor your bird, they’re always a part of you. When your pet passes, it’s difficult to know what steps to take next. The more prepared you are, the easier it is to make the right choices in the heat of the moment.
Now that you know how to handle pet bird cremation, you’re ready to give your pet the right final sendoff. Saying goodbye is never easy, but you’re not alone.