Pet Microchips & What Happens During Cremation?

Microchipping is a simple yet effective way to ensure that lost pets can be reunited with their owners. This tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, is implanted under your pet’s skin and contains a unique identification number. Should your pet ever go missing and be found by a shelter or veterinary clinic, this microchip can be scanned to quickly identify you as the owner.

While microchips play a crucial role in pet safety, it’s important to note that they do not require any special consideration during the cremation process. Pet owners can rest assured that the presence of a microchip will not affect the cremation in any way, and there is no need for concern about its fate.

The Cremation Process: Treating Your Pet with Dignity

Microchips are typically made of biocompatible materials such as glass or ceramic. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to remain inert within the animal’s body. The electronic components inside are designed to withstand normal body temperatures and movements throughout the pet’s life. Pet cremation involves subjecting the remains to extremely high temperatures, typically ranging from 760 to 982 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are necessary to reduce organic matter to its basic elements, resulting in the ashes that are returned to pet owners.

Given the extreme temperatures involved in cremation, microchips do not survive the process. The intense heat causes the biocompatible casing to melt and the electronic components to incinerate completely. Like other materials in the body, the microchip is broken down and becomes part of the resulting ashes. It’s important to note that this process does not affect the quality or purity of the ashes returned to pet owners. The minuscule amount of material from the microchip is indistinguishable from the pet’s cremated remains.

Our crematorium is committed to handling your pet’s remains with the utmost care and respect. We understand that pet owners may have concerns about metal objects, such as surgical pins or implants, during cremation. These items do not burn during the process. Our staff carefully removes any visible metal objects from the cremated remains before the final processing of the bones. This ensures that you receive only your pet’s ashes, free from any foreign materials.

When you receive your pet’s ashes, they will be presented in a scatter box or casket of your choice. The ashes are typically light grey or white in colour with a sand-like texture. The colour can vary according to the level of heat in the cremator. Along with the ashes, you’ll receive a certificate of cremation, providing assurance that the remains are indeed those of your beloved pet.

From the moment your pet arrives at our facility to the final return of their ashes, every step is handled with integrity, compassion, and dignity. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your beloved companion has been treated with the utmost respect in their final journey. 

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Wishing you a peaceful season

Holiday Notice

Our Legacy Memorial Store features products crafted with love by talented South African artisans. To give them a well-deserved Christmas break, please note:

  • Orders can still be placed, and ashes collected as usual.
  • Final products will be delivered in late January.

Thank you for your understanding and support of local craftsmanship.

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