My pet died at home. What do I do now?
We're sorry for your loss. Here is what to do, step by step. There's no need to rush.
Right now
- Take a moment. You don't have to do anything in the next few minutes. Sit with your pet and say goodbye if you'd like to.
- Check gently that they've passed. No breathing, no heartbeat, and eyes that stay open. If you're unsure, call your vet or the 24-hour emergency clinic.
- Lay them on their side, with the legs gently tucked toward the body, before they stiffen. This usually begins within 2 to 6 hours.
- Put a towel or waterproof sheet underneath. It's normal for fluids to leak after death.
In the next few hours
- Keep your pet cool. Move them to the coolest room in the house, away from heaters and sunlight. In winter, an unheated garage works well.
- Wrap them in a blanket or their favourite bedding.
- Keep a few keepsakes if you'd like: a clipping of fur, their collar, or an ink paw print.
- Call to arrange pickup. (587) 612-5339. We'll explain private and communal cremation and confirm the price before anything is booked.
Within 24 hours
Try to have your pet picked up within about a day, sooner in a warm house. If pickup can't happen until later, a small pet can be wrapped in a towel and a plastic bag and kept in a freezer. A larger dog can stay in a cold garage in winter.
Your options
- Private cremation: your pet is cremated alone and the ashes come home to you.
- Communal cremation: the lowest-cost option. Ashes are not returned.
- Home burial: may be allowed for small pets on your own property outside city limits. Check your municipality's bylaws, bury deep enough that animals can't dig, and stay away from wells and water.
Common questions
How long can I keep my pet at home after they die?
If your pet is kept cool, a few hours to a day is fine. In a warm house, arrange pickup within about 24 hours. In winter, a cold garage or shed slows changes considerably.
Can I put my pet in the freezer?
For a small pet, yes, if pickup can't happen for a day or more. Wrap them in a towel first, then a plastic bag. Let the crematorium know when you call.
Is it normal for fluid to leak or the body to move?
Yes. After death, muscles relax and fluids can leak, and you may see twitching or a last breath-like sound. This is normal and does not mean your pet is in pain. A waterproof sheet underneath helps.
Should my other pets see the body?
Many vets suggest letting other pets sniff and see the body. It may help them understand the loss.