For many of us, pets are not “just animals”.
They are part of the family.
They sit with us when life is difficult, they comfort us without saying a word, and they become part of our everyday lives. Because of this, more families are now asking if a loved one’s pet can visit the chapel of rest or crematorium to say a final goodbye.
In some situations, this may be possible, but it is very important that permission is always asked for first.
Every crematorium, funeral director, and venue has its own rules and policies about animals entering the chapel or grounds. Some may allow it in certain circumstances, while others may not. Because of this, families should never assume it will automatically be allowed.
I always advise families to speak with the funeral director first so they can contact the crematorium or venue directly and ask for permission before any arrangements are made.
Why some families want to include a pet
The bond between people and their pets can be incredibly strong.
Over the years, I have seen dogs waiting by doors for owners who are never coming home and pets searching the house looking for the person they loved.
Pets grieve too.
Sometimes families feel it is important for a dog or another much loved pet to be included in those final moments. For some people, it simply feels right that a faithful companion is there to say goodbye alongside the family.
Important things to think about
Although the idea can be very comforting, there are important practical things to consider.
The pet must be calm, safe, and well controlled at all times.
Crematoriums can sometimes be busy and emotional places, with other funerals taking place, traffic movement around the grounds, and large numbers of people arriving.
Before asking for permission, it can help to think about:
Will the pet remain calm around strangers?
Could the pet become distressed or overwhelmed?
Is the environment suitable for them?
Does the venue allow animals inside the chapel?
Could other mourners have allergies or fears around animals?
These conversations are important because every situation is different.
Some crematoriums may allow it
In recent years, some crematoriums and funeral venues have become more understanding about allowing pets, especially dogs, to attend in certain situations.
Usually, this is decided on a case-by-case basis and may depend on:
The type of pet
The size of the chapel
Health and safety guidance
Whether the pet remains under control
The agreement of the crematorium management
Again, permission must always be obtained first.
Other ways to include a pet
If a crematorium doesn’t allow pets inside the chapel, there are still many lovely ways to include them within the funeral or memorial.
Some families choose to:
Walk the dog beside the hearse before the service
Include photographs of the pet with their loved one
Mention the pet during the eulogy
Bring the pet to a gathering afterwards
Allow the pet to say goodbye privately before the funeral day
Include collars, tags, paw prints, or favourite toys within a tribute display
Sometimes the smallest touches can mean the most.
Do what you think is right
Funerals are deeply personal, and there is no single right way to say goodbye.
For many people, pets are part of the family story, part of the love, and part of the memories. Including them in some way can feel incredibly important and comforting.
Our four-legged friends and fur babies often stand beside us through some of the hardest moments in life. They give unconditional love, comfort, loyalty, and companionship, so it is understandable that some families wish for them to be part of those final moments too.
However, crematoriums and funeral venues also have responsibilities and rules they must follow, so permission should always be asked for first through the funeral director or directly with the venue.
With care and the right planning, it may be possible to create a gentle and meaningful goodbye that includes every member of the family, including our much loved four-legged friends and fur babies too.
If you would like to learn more about me, my background, and the services I offer, please visit my About Jon Matson-Higgins page or my Funeral Celebrant page.
I have created some basic information to help guide what to do after someone passes away, and some resources to support bereavement. I understand that planning a ceremony can sometimes feel overwhelming, so if you have any questions or would simply like an informal chat, please feel free to contact me through my contact page.
The information given in this blog is for information only
Written by Jon Matson-Higgins, Minister & Celebrant based in Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Rutland and Northamptonshire