My Pet Just Died
What Do I Do Now?
After the Goodbye: Compassionate Steps Forward - Affordable Help Awaits
My Pet Just Died, What Do I Do?
Losing a pet is heartbreaking. Whether expected or sudden, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next.
If you're searching for compassionate guidance and practical steps, you’re in the right place.
1) Take a Moment
First, allow yourself a moment to grieve. It’s okay to feel sadness, shock, or confusion. Your pet was a beloved part of your family, and this is a difficult time.
But even in the midst of your grief, be sure not to wait too long. You are now on a countdown clock to handle this new challenge, even when you're hurting.
Now that your pet has crossed the Rainbow Bridge, their body immediately begins to break down. You need to decide on a solution quickly. If you wait too long, odors and other issues will develop and, trust me, that's not good for anyone. Time is now of the essence.
Helpful Tip: If your pet is smaller in size, like a cat or small dog, you can wrap them in a towel and place them in a typical household garbage bag and place them in your freezer. This can buy you time until you decide how you'd like to honor them. Be sure to double - bag, just in case. Don't worry, they'll understand. Don't forget how much they loved you.
If putting your pet in a freezer is not an option, then you must act quickly. We can be at your home usually within 45 minutes to 1 hour to pick up.
2) Prepare Your Pet
If possible, move your pet to a cool, dry place.
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If your pet passed outside, try to bring them indoors or at least out of direct sunlight.
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Clean up gently — it's normal for pets to release their bowels after death.
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Wrap your pet in a towel or blanket.
If handling your beloved pet's body after they've passed is a little too much, this is perfectly understandable. Don't be troubled, we will take care of everything.
Helpful Tip: Placing your pet on a blanket or on their bed helps to move them easily and keeps any unpleasant fluids from spreading. I understand that putting your pet on ice sounds like a good idea, but you may be doing more harm than good.
Moisture accelerates breakdown. It's best to wrap them as best you can and call for a home pickup as soon as possible.
3) Decide on Aftercare
I'll admit that I may be a little biased here, but I strongly recommend cremation for your pet's aftercare. Yes, burial is definitely a valid option, but there are some practical benefits of cremation to consider.
Cremation Is Portable:
What happens if you move? I have had several families request that I cremate their pet after its been buried because they are moving and they don't want to leave their companion behind. I'm always happy to help out here, but choosing cremation ahead of time avoids the pain of having to dig up their grave and transport it to the crematory.
Quicker & Simpler Process:
Cremation provides a simpler and more straightforward alternative to traditional burial. With a streamlined process, families can concentrate on healing and remembrance instead of navigating the complexities of arrangements. Moreover, cremation removes the requirement for digging that dang hole!
Perfect for Renters:
Pet cremation is an ideal solution for renters who may not have access to a yard or land for burial. It allows loving pet owners to respectfully honor their beloved pets without the constraints of property limitations. With cremation, you can choose to keep your pet's ashes in a special urn or scatter them in a meaningful place. Cremation offers flexibility and peace of mind during a difficult time.
4) Call Now for Fast Home Pickup
We offer home pick-up services at very reasonable prices. Just call us — we’re available 24/7 to assist you. We can usually be at your home within the hour.
Helpful Tip: You can always opt to drop off at our facility in Starke. There is never any charge for dropping off.
What to Expect After You Call
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We will arrive at your home, usually within the hour. We're not the cable company; we'll inform you of exactly when we're arriving.
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We will handle your pet with dignity and care showing them the love they deserve.
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Your pet will be compassionately cremated within days.
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Every cremation is guaranteed to be private, with no mixing of ashes with other pets.
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We will text you when your pet is ready for pick up — typically within 3 days
Helpful Tip: You can opt to pick up your pet's cremains in person or, if that is not convenient, we can always ship to your home or personally hand deliver. The choice is yours.
More Tips on What To Do When Your Pet Dies
How much does pet cremation cost?
Losing a pet is one of the hardest things you’ll ever go through, and we never want cost to add to your pain. At Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida, we keep things gentle and straightforward. Our pricing is clear and caring: exotic or micro pets start at $99, communal cremation ranges from $149–$299, and private cremation (so you receive your pet’s ashes back) ranges from $239–$399. We’re proud to offer some of the most affordable pet cremation options in North Florida, with no hidden fees. Whether you’re looking for dog cremation cost, cat cremation cost, pet cremation cost near me, or same day pet cremation, we’re here to help. Call us at 904-955-8521 — we’ll talk you through everything you need to know. Check out our prices here. And don't forget about our payment plans to help with the unexpected.
What do I do if my dog dies at home?
I’m truly sorry you’re facing this moment — it can feel so overwhelming when your dog passes away at home. Take the time you need to just sit with your feelings. When you’re ready for the next step, we’re right here for you. At Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida in Starke (convenient to Jacksonville and Gainesville), we gently handle everything — from compassionate dead pet removal to private cremation for dogs near you. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Call us anytime at 904-955-8521.
Who do I call for dead pet / pickup / removal services?
If you’re wondering who to call when your pet passes away at home, please know you can reach out to us. We understand how heavy this feels. Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida is here with gentle, respectful care — offering dead pet removal, animal services for dead animals, and who picks up dead dogs in the Jacksonville - Gainesville area, 24 hours when needed. Call us at 904-955-8521.
Where can I cremate my dog near me?
Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida in Starke is conveniently located between Jacksonville and Gainesville, serving North and Central Florida. We are close by and ready to care for your dog with all the love he or she gave you. We provide affordable cremation services for pets and same day pet cremation whenever possible. Call us anytime at 904-955-8521. We’re at 1401 N. Temple Ave, Starke, Florida — we’re here for you.
What do I do if my dog died?
My heart truly goes out to you. When your dog has died, it’s okay to feel everything you’re feeling. At Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida in Starke, we’re here to help with what to do if your dog died. We’ll treat your pet with the utmost respect. Reach out at 904-955-8521 to schedule a pickup and learn everything you need to know to make the right decision for memorializing your beloved pet.
Where do I take a dead dog that's passed away?
I’m truly sorry you’re in this painful place. If you’re wondering where do you take a dead dog, Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida in Starke is a caring place to bring your beloved pet. We handle dead dog disposal and provide animal cremation services with warmth and respect. You can either make an appointment to bring your beloved pet to our facility or you can have us pick up from your home. In most cases, we can be at your home in less than an hour. Call us at 904-955-8521 — we’re at 1401 N. Temple Ave, Starke, Florida, and we’ll treat your pet like family.