Question 1

Do you provide urns or other keepsakes for my pet's ashes?

Accepted Answer

Every private and semi-private cremation comes with a tasteful cremation certificate and temporary urn free of charge.  If you'd like to upgrade your urn to something more permanent and meaningful, we offer a wide range of urns, keepsake jewelry, and other memorial items to help you honor and cherish your pet's memory.

If you have an existing urn and you'd like to upgrade it to something more modern, we can help you there as well.

Question 2

Do you handle the pickup and transportation of my pet?

Accepted Answer

Unlike other pet crematories, yes, I provide pet pickup and transportation services for your convenience.

I can pick up at your home or vet clinic any time, day or night.  I can pick up from South Georgia all the way down to The Villages and all points in between.

Some locations I pick up from often are:

Brunswick, Ga
Fernandina Beach, Fl
Lake City, Fl
Jacksonville, Fl
St. Augustine, Fl
Gainesville, Fl
Ocala, Fl
The Villages, Fl
Summerfield, Fl

Question 3

What is Prepaid Pet Cremation Plan?

Accepted Answer

Even though we may notice that our furry friends are getting up in years, we always prefer to not think about the inevitable. We notice that they're moving a little slower, they're not as playful as they used to be or maybe they've simply stopped eating.

We put it out of our minds that our time with our furry best friends is getting short, preferring to not think about the inevitable.  We are whistling past the graveyard, so to speak.

And, the thing we knew in our hearts was coming, but preferred to not think about finally DOES happen and we're always caught by surprise and totally unprepared by their passing.

Not only is their death a painful event, it also catches us at the most inopportune moment.  The A/C was just repaired ($$$) or our car just underwent extensive repairs ($$$).  Oh, and their death always happens the day before payday.

Prepaid pet cremation allows you to solve the problem you KNOW is coming before it's an absolute crisis.  The death of your pet must be handled now.

No money to fix the A/C?  We buy fans.
No money to fix the car?  We take the bus

But when our pet dies, this is now an absolute emergency that must be resolved in hours, not days or weeks.

This is why I offer prepaid pet cremation and pet cremation payment plans.  Let me help you plan ahead and solve your issue before it's a crisis.

Trust me: unexpected cremation costs add up fast and it's made all the worse when we don't have the money in the bank to deal with the unexpected.

Learn More.

Question 4

Can I add keepsakes like urns or jewelry to my plan after purchasing it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can! Your prepaid plan includes the standard package, but you can personalize your pet’s farewell with urns, jewelry, or other keepsakes at regular prices. We offer a variety of memorial products to help you honor your pet's memory.

Question 5

Can I witness the cremation process?

Accepted Answer

In a word: yes.

Other, high-volume, assembly line pet cremation companies will charge you upwards of $500 to $900 to witness your pet's cremation.  Why?  It certainly isn't because it somehow costs them more.  It's because they don't want you to witness how they do things.  Does this make you feel more or less secure knowing the ashes you're getting back are truly your pet's?

But I'm not a high-volume pet crematory; I am a veteran-owned, one-man operation that only serves pet owners.  I don't charge extra for peace of mind.  I give tours to pet owners all the time of my operation to give them the peace of mind that I operate from an ethics-first mindset.

There's no right way to do the wrong thing.

I'm proud of my small operation. I keep it neat, clean, well-organized and everything is dummy-proofed to ensure mistakes don't happen.  And I want you to see it.

So, yes.  I absolutely welcome any request to witness your pet's cremation, for free.

Question 6

What should you look for in a pet cremation provider?

Accepted Answer

You should look for compassionate care, clear pricing, and a provider that handles your pet with dignity from start to finish.

At Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida, you work directly with me, the owner. All cremations are done on-site, and you can count on personal, 24/7 support. If you want, you can also ask about home pick-up, return times, and the cremation options available so you can choose what feels right for you.

Question 7

What is pet cremation and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Pet cremation is a respectful process that reduces your pet’s remains to ashes using high heat. It’s a dignified way to honor their memory. We offer various cremation options to ensure your wishes are met with care.

Question 8

How do I set up pet cremation with you?

Accepted Answer

Call us anytime at (904) 955-8521. You’ll speak directly with the owner, who will walk you through your options, pricing, and pickup or drop-off details. We’re here 24/7 to give you calm, compassionate support and handle everything with care.

Question 9

What cremation services do you provide?

Accepted Answer

I provide two types of cremation:
Private and Communal

Private Cremation
Private cremation is where only one pet is in the cremation chamber at a time.  Because they are alone you will receive their ashes back in a complimentary wooden urn.  I personally engrave every urn to your request, also free.  I don't charge extra for more letters or lines; whatever you want on your pet's urn, I'll do it. For Free.

Communal Cremation
Communal cremation is where multiple animals are cremated together and ashes cannot be returned.  Communal cremation is typically done when no owners are involved (a stray or pound animal) or when the owners simply don't need or want the cremains returned.  Communal is also a lower-cost option for pet parents on a budget.  But before you settle for communal just because funds are tight, be sure to ask about my payment plans!  There's always a way to make sure your best friend comes back home.

There's also another type of pet cremation that I warn pet parents about.  It's called segregated or partitioned pet cremation.  This is when a line of bricks are laid down on the chamber floor to create two or multiple 'areas' within the chamber.  This is done so that crematories can cremate multiple animals in one cycle as a cost cutting measure.

A Warning
Be wary of high-volume pet crematories that promise you a private cremation when, in fact, they are providing a partitioned cremation.  Ashes will still, most definitely, mix in that situation due to the high volume of air flow happening in the chamber during the cremation process.  There definitely ARE unscrupulous pet crematories that will tell you that your pet is cremated 'privately' when in fact it is a partitioned cremation.

Question 10

What is private pet cremation?

Accepted Answer

Private pet cremation ensures that your pet is cremated individually, alone in the cremation chamber, so you receive only your pet’s ashes. This is the most personalized and respectful option.

Question 11

What is communal pet cremation?

Accepted Answer

Communal pet cremation involves cremating multiple pets together without separation. As a result, ashes are not returned to the owner. This option is often more affordable and is suitable for those who do not require ashes to be returned. Regardless, we still provide you a certificate suitable for framing memorializing your pet at no charge.

Question 12

How do I know I am receiving my pet’s ashes?

Accepted Answer

Speaking bluntly:

You simply do not know if the cremains you receive from a crematory are, in fact, your pet's actual cremains.

Pet cremation relies 100% on the ethics and honesty of the pet crematory itself.  The problem and uncertainty only compounds when dealing with large, high-volume pet crematories.  I used to think that my small size was a problem.  But it turns out that, in fact, it is a strength that the large, conveyor belt pet crematories simply can't match.

You see, I have no employees.  I have no investors trying to convince me to cut corners.

Every home pick up is done by me and me alone
Every cremation is done by me and me alone
Every urn is packed and engraved by me

Every aspect of your pet's cremation is handled by one man, me, every step of the way.

So how do you know the ashes you're receiving are your pet's?  Because you met the man who will guide your furry best friend across the rainbow bridge personally, and you trust him.

What a radical idea, right?

And, yes, you may also witness your pet's cremation in person, for free.  I understand this need to be absolutely sure that your pet is cremated alone.  I don't charge for peace of mind.

Question 13

How long does it take to receive my pet’s ashes?

Accepted Answer

My promise to you is that you will have your best friend back to you in less than 7 days.

But my average turnaround time is 3 to 5 days.

I also offer same-day pet cremations as well. This same day pet cremation service is offered for a small fee of $79 to cover the cost of heating up the cremator outside of my usual schedule.  If the machine is already hot, I can waive this fee easily.

Question 14

Are there any weight or size restrictions for pet cremation?

Accepted Answer

There aren't many, but yes.

Typically, I can handle any animal up to 350 pounds.  Unfortunately, I can't cremate horses, they're simply too large for my machine and requires special handling.  If you are in need of horse cremation, I'm happy to help you find a provider near you at no charge.

Question 15

How long can I wait before I need to cremate my pet?

Accepted Answer

At Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida, we understand that saying goodbye to your beloved pet is an incredibly emotional experience. Ideally, it is best to arrange for the cremation as soon as possible to ensure the preservation of your pet's remains.

Typically, waiting no more than 4 to 6 hours is recommended to prevent decomposition, especially in warmer climates like Florida.

However, if immediate cremation is not an option and your pet is on the smaller side, refrigerating your pet's remains can help preserve them for a slightly extended period.

Please call me directly for specific guidance and support; I am here to help you through every step of this difficult process. I know how hard of a time this is and I want to help, even if you don't choose me!

Call direct:  (904) 955-8521

Question 16

Where to take a dead pet?

Accepted Answer

For dignified cremation, call Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida at (904) 955-8521. We'll handle transport and aftercare throughout our service area.

Question 17

Where can you cremate your pet?

Accepted Answer

We provide pet cremation throughout North and Central Florida. Call (904) 955-8521 and we'll arrange everything, including picking up your pet if needed.

Question 18

Where do you take a pet that has died?

Accepted Answer

Call us at (904) 955-8521 and we'll arrange to bring your pet into our care for cremation, so you don't have to manage it alone.

Question 19

Where to put my dog down near me?

Accepted Answer

A licensed veterinarian can provide a peaceful, pain-free passing, often in your own home through a mobile vet. We're here for cremation afterward at (904) 955-8521.

Question 20

Where to get a dog cremated near me?

Accepted Answer

We offer dog cremation throughout the greater Jacksonville and Gainesville area, with transport available. Call (904) 955-8521.

Question 21

Where can I get my dog cremated near me?

Accepted Answer

We serve Jacksonville, Gainesville, Ocala, St. Augustine, Lake City, The Villages, and Fernandina Beach. Call (904) 955-8521 and we'll arrange care close to you.

Question 22

Are there pet cemeteries near me?

Accepted Answer

There are some pet cemeteries in Florida, though many families today choose cremation so they can keep their pet's ashes with them. We offer dignified cremation and memorial options across the region. Call (904) 955-8521 to learn more.

Question 23

Where to take my dead dog?

Accepted Answer

We'll take your dog into our care for cremation — and we can come to you. Call (904) 955-8521 whenever you're ready.

Question 24

Where can I get my dog cremated?

Accepted Answer

Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida handles dog cremation across the Jacksonville and Gainesville region. Call (904) 955-8521 and we'll take it from there.

Question 25

Where can I take my dog to be cremated?

Accepted Answer

Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida serves the Jacksonville, Gainesville, Ocala, St. Augustine, and surrounding areas from Starke, FL. Call (904) 955-8521 and we can also arrange transport.

Question 26

How much does it cost to cremate your dog?

Accepted Answer

Dog cremation costs are based on their weight.

Some dogs are tiny like Chihuahuas or Dachshunds  and other dogs are absolute giants like Great Danes.

Another consideration is what type of cremation you want for your best friend.  Do you want the ashes returned?  Then a private pet cremation is what you want.  Do you want to save money or simply don't have the space for a pet's urn?  Then Communal pet cremation is the way to go.

Because of the high variability, I have organized dog cremation costs into 'weight tiers.'  You can learn more about my dog cremation pricing at APC's pricing page.

All private cremations include a free solid wood urn, custom engraving and a certificate you can hang on the wall.

Call me direct at: (904) 955-8521

Question 27

How much does it cost to cremate a cat near me?

Accepted Answer

Because most cats all weigh approximately 5-10 pounds, a private cremation for a cat is $249, regardless of size.

No, I won't penalize you if your particular cat loved their Fancy Feast a little TOO much and they're chubbier than most!

All private cremations include a free solid wood urn, custom engraving and a certificate you can hang on the wall.

Call me direct at: (904) 955-8521

Question 28

How much do vets charge to cremate a pet?

Accepted Answer

Ugh.  I hate this question.

To lay the groundwork, vets do not do pet cremation, they farm it out to third party, high-volume, conveyor belt pet cremation services.  Your vet may be awesome, but once your pet leaves his hands, he has no control over the quality, attention to detail or turnaround time provided by these large-scale pet cremation facilities.  They are a complete black box.

But that doesn't mean your vet won't charge you for pet cremation.  But all he's really doing is facilitating your pet's cremation.  Do you really think that's worth $500, $600 or $700?  Yeah, neither do I.

This means that vet clinics charge whatever they want for pet cremation.  Some add a small upcharge, others add monstrous profit margins, secure in the knowledge that you have no other options.  And if you go to directly to their pet crematory, they will charge you MORE than your vet will!

But Affordable Pet Cremation of Florida is different.  I do not provide pet cremation services to vet clinics who demand low wholesale pricing that forces corners to be cut.

Instead, I serve pet owners exclusively.  This is how I am able to keep my prices as low as possible while providing ethical, honest pet cremation services.

Question 29

What do I do if my pet dies at home?

Accepted Answer

Your dog just died at home and now you have a situation that requires your fast and immediate attention.  As much as we loved them when they were alive, your pet that has now crossed the rainbow bridge has provided you with a new challenge beyond cleaning up after them when you took them for walkies.  They have begun the decomposition process immediately and will begin to smell and attract insect soon.

Here's exactly what to do:

If they are outside, move them inside to keep insects and wildlife from getting at them.
If they are already inside, move them to the coolest part of the house.  A bathroom, even in the bathtub is a great option.
If you can, wrap their body in a towel or blanket to keep any fluids contained.  If they're small enough, you can even supplement the towel with a shoe box or similar.
Call me immediately to organize pick up or drop off.  I can usually be at your home within an hour. You can reach me directly, 24/7 at:  (904) 955-8521

Here's what NOT to do:
You can put them on ice, but do everything you can to keep them from getting wet.  When you wrap them in a blanket, think about also putting them in a garbage bag.  You thought a wet living dog smelled bad...
If you ARE able to put them in a freezer, you've bought yourself a little time.  But the larger the dog, the less time you have to get this new crisis handled.  Do NOT put off calling me.  Under no circumstances can you wait longer than 24 hours without putting them in the freezer.
Don't leave them in the freezer more than a day or so.  Sooner or later, the smell will permeate the freezer, and your food.  Chef Ramsey would NOT approve.
Don't put off handling this new crisis because you don't think you can afford pet cremation.  Pet cremation costs add up fast, and our furry friends always die the day BEFORE payday.  I understand, which is why I have several pet cremation payment plan options, to include Care Credit.  Call first, worry about price later.

Question 30

What to do if your dog dies at home and you have no money?

Accepted Answer

Please don't worry — you have options. Communal cremation starts at $79, and we offer financing through CareCredit, Affirm, and Klarna. Call (904) 955-8521 and I'll work with you compassionately.

Question 31

What to do if your dog dies at home on the weekend?

Accepted Answer

Pets don't pass on a schedule. Keep your dog in the coolest part of your home on a blanket, and call us at (904) 955-8521 as soon as you can — I answer the phone 24/7, including weekends and holidays.

Pet Cremation FAQ