What Should You Do With a Dog’s Body After It Dies at Home? A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to properly handle your dog’s body at home after it passes, including contacting vets, cremation, and burial options.

Published

Video transcript

Contact your vet or a pet cremation service immediately. Handle your pet’s body with care, using protective gloves and placing it on a blanket. Consider keeping the remains in a cool area or even arranging for temporary home refrigeration if required. In the meantime, decide if you prefer a home burial, cremation, or contacting animal control for assistance. Your vet can guide you through each option and ensure proper, respectful handling of your beloved pet’s remains.

Questions and answers

  1. What is the first step to take when a dog dies at home?

    Contact your veterinarian or a professional pet cremation service immediately for guidance on handling your dog’s remains respectfully.

  2. Can I keep my dog’s body at home before burial or cremation?

    Yes, you should handle the body with care using gloves and keep it in a cool area or arrange temporary refrigeration if possible.

  3. What are common options for disposing of a deceased dog’s body?

    Typical options include home burial, pet cremation through a service, or contacting animal control for assistance.

  4. Is it necessary to use gloves when handling a deceased pet?

    Yes, wearing protective gloves is recommended to ensure sanitary and respectful handling of your pet’s body.