The Association of Private Pet Cemeteries and Crematoria (APPCC) has today called on pet owners and veterinary practices to ask more questions before arranging a pet cremation, following recent reports that have raised widespread concern across the profession.
This follows the APPCC’s national press release issued to UK media on 13 July 2026 calling for greater transparency throughout the pet cremation process.
The Association says the distress caused to pet owners highlights the importance of transparency throughout every stage of a pet’s final journey, from collection and identification through to cremation and the respectful return of ashes.
Kevin Spurgeon, Director of the APPCC, said:
“The images being shared online have understandably shocked pet owners. But the bigger issue is whether grieving families truly know what happens after their pet leaves their care. Legal compliance alone is not always the same as meeting a family’s expectation of dignity, respect and compassion.”
Individual cremation is about far more than receiving an urn or casket at the end. Families deserve to understand the entire journey their pet will take and should feel confident asking:
- Who will actually carry out my pet’s cremation?
- Which pet crematorium will care for my pet?
- How will my pet be identified throughout their journey?
- How will my pet be transported and cared for?
- Will my pet be cremated individually?
- Can I visit the crematorium?
- Is the crematorium independently inspected?
The APPCC believes every reputable pet crematorium should welcome these questions.
The Association is also encouraging veterinary practices to review the cremation providers they recommend. Because clients place enormous trust in their veterinary practice, practices should regularly visit the crematoria they recommend and be confident explaining exactly how pets are cared for after collection.
APPCC members agree to work to a detailed Code of Practice and undergo independent inspections in addition to their statutory approvals. For individual cremation, the Code requires that pets are cremated individually and that remains are carefully recovered before another cremation takes place.
The Association believes these standards help provide the dignity, transparency and accountability that every grieving family deserves.
Read the official APPCC press release
Find your nearest APPCC member
Learn more about the APPCC Code of Conduct
Questions Every Pet Owner Should Ask Before Choosing a Pet Cremation Service