These are some common myths and misconceptions about pet cremation:

Myth: All pets are cremated together.

Fact: Reputable pet crematories offer individual cremation, ensuring that your pet’s ashes are returned to you.

Legacy Offers Return of Ashes Cremation

Myth: You won’t receive your pet’s ashes.

Fact: For Return of Ashes cremations, you will receive your pet’s ashes in a Legacy Scatter Box. We have a system in place to ensure it is your pet’s ashes that you receive.

Myth: Cremation is disrespectful.

Fact: Legacy cremation is a dignified and respectful way to honour your pet’s memory. All our staff work with integrity and a high standard of excellence.

Myth: Cremation is more expensive than burial.

Fact: Cremation can be a more affordable and environmentally responsible choice compared to traditional burial options. In South Africa, there are no designated burial plots for animals, and while backyard burials may seem cost-effective, they often violate municipal bylaws in suburban areas. Additionally, some “burial” options offered by vets may involve disposal in a landfill. Legacy Pet Crematorium offers private or communal cremation services, ensuring an eco-friendly and dignified farewell for your pet.

Myth: Cremation is a cold and impersonal process.

Fact: Legacy Pet Crematorium offer caring, compassionate services that provide a meaningful farewell. Our dedicated team supports you through the process, allowing you to say goodbye in a serene environment. We also offer beautiful keepsakes to honour your pet’s memory, helping to bring comfort and closure in a difficult time.

Learn more about our Private Cremation Service

Myth: Cremation for pets is a new practice.

Fact: Cremation has been practiced for centuries as a respectful and time-honoured way to handle remains. Legacy Pet Crematorium was the first pet crematorium in South Africa, established nearly 30 years ago. We are also committed to the future, exploring innovative methods like aquamation (alkaline hydrolysis) to offer environmentally conscious options for pet aftercare. Read more history here >>

Myth: Cremation is harmful to the environment.

Fact: Cremation is an environmentally friendly option, as it avoids the use of chemicals and conserves land space. Traditional burial, especially when pets have been euthanized, can pose a greater environmental risk, as chemicals from euthanasia can leach into soil and water sources. By choosing cremation, pet owners opt for a safe and eco-conscious alternative.

Myth: You can’t have a memorial service after cremation.

Fact: You can still hold a memorial service to honour your pet’s life, whether it’s a traditional funeral or a smaller gathering. It’s all up to you and what you’re comfortable with.

Legacy Pet Crematorium offers cremation services with online pet keepsakes >>>

Myth: Cremation is only for certain breeds or types of pets.

Fact: Cremation is suitable for pets (eg. birds and horses) of all sizes and breeds.

Myth: Cremation is a rushed process.

Fact: Reputable crematories handle each pet with care and respect, ensuring a dignified process.

Myth: Cremation is only for older pets.

Fact: Pets of any age can be cremated.

Myth: Cremation is a complicated process.

Fact: The process is relatively simple and straightforward.

Myth: Cremation is only for indoor pets.

Fact: Outdoor pets can also be cremated. Legacy Pet only cremate companion animals.

Myth: Cremation is a permanent decision.

Fact: While cremation is a permanent choice, you have options for how to honour your pet’s memory, such as scattering the ashes in a special place or keeping them in our Legacy scatter box.

You may also opt for one of our unique pet keepsakes available to order and purchase online >>>