The loss of a pet can be devastating, especially if it was a longtime companion that saw you through key moments in your life. Many of the families we serve want to honor their pet in the same way they would honor another loved one, which is why we offer pet cremation services in Charleston, SC and the surrounding areas of the Lowcountry. In this blog, we’ll look at the different cremation options available, and how our caring staff can help you memorialize your pet in the best way for you. 

First Steps

When it is time for you to say goodbye to your beloved pet, we are immediately available to help. If your pet passed away at the Veterinarian's office, our staff can handle the transfer of your pet into our care so you don't have to. As a full service funeral home, we know that unplanned deaths can happen. Therefore, if your pet passes away at home or outside of business hours, we are available 24/7 to assist you. We are able to transfer your pet into our care from your residence, or you can bring them to any of our chapel locations. Once your pet is in our care, a staff member will guide you through the different cremation and memorial options we offer as well as answer any questions you may have.

Private Cremation

This option is for families who would like their pet to be cremated individually, with the option to witness the cremation if they would like. Private cremations ensure that there is no co-mingling with the cremated remains of other pets, and allow for a more personal farewell. Aside from the cremation service, you’ll be able to choose from personalized urns and keepsakes to honor and remember your pet.

Partitioned Cremation

The partitioned cremation means your pet will be cremated at the same time as other pets, but each are separated from other pets by a firesafe brick partition. Also being identified with our unique Secure ID Tracking System, this option allows for you to bring only your beloved pet home. Your choice of keepsakes and personalized urns are also available with this cremation service.

Communal Cremation

If you do not want to receive your pets' cremated remains back but want to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect after their passing, then you may want to consider our communal cremation service. With this option, your pet is cremated at the same time as other pets, with no separation, and their cremated remains are then laid to rest at our memorial pond. The memorial pond is located at our West Ashley location, is open to the public and gives you a safe place to visit and grieve your beloved pet. Limited memorial products and keepsakes are available for families who choose this cremation service. 

Grief Support

We understand that having to say goodbye to a beloved pet is incredibly hard. If you or your family need help while making the decisions on how to memorialize your companion, we offer resources for support groups and grief. These resources are easily accessible on our website for you and your family. 

If you’re considering pet cremation services for your pet, please contact McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation for more information on how to start the process. We can be visited at any of our locations, reached through our website, or by phone at (843) 722-8371. Thank you for trusting us to care for your pet during this difficult time. We are honored to serve you.