Infinity Pet Crematorium

When the Time Comes: Understanding What Happens Next

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest moments any of us will ever face.

In those first hours, everything can feel overwhelming – and being asked to make decisions can feel like too much, especially when your heart is hurting.

Many families tell us they feel unsure about what happens next, particularly when it comes to cremation. That’s completely natural.

At Infinity Pet Crematorium, we’re here to help you through each step, so you feel reassured and never alone in the process. This guide explains what to expect and how we support you every step of the way.

Why Infinity Pet Crematorium Exists

Before opening Infinity, Helen, the owner, spent many years working as part of the management team within a local veterinary practice, joining shortly after it first opened and becoming part of its growth within the community. During that time, she was part of a team that supported families through every stage of their pet’s life – from early care and routine visits, through to illness, loss, and aftercare.

It was here that she gained a clear understanding of how important compassionate, respectful support is when a beloved pet dies.

Working with crematoriums, liaising with other veterinary practices, and animal welfare services such as Blue Cross and the RSPCA, she saw first-hand the differences in standards, communication, and care. She came to understand not only how the process works, but how it feels for the families going through it.

That understanding is what shaped Infinity.

Her connection to animals, however, began long before her time working in the veterinary sector. Growing up on a family farm, Helen was surrounded by animals from an early age, learning the responsibility and care they deserve.

This shared connection to animals extends to her husband, Ian, whose life has also been rooted in working closely with them. Having grown up in Kirkby Misperton, where his father worked at the local zoo and would often bring animals home, Ian developed an early and lasting bond with animals and pets.

Ian has been farming locally for most of his life, becoming a dedicated cattleman and working closely with livestock over many years. For over 15 years, Helen and Ian also took on the day-to-day running and management of her family farm. Ian continues to work as a farmer today, while also supporting and working alongside Helen at Infinity.

Over the years, they have given homes to many unwanted and injured animals brought into the veterinary practice – something that speaks quietly of the compassion at the heart of everything they do.

Infinity Pet Crematorium was created from this lifetime of experience – not simply to provide a service, but to care for your pet as you would care for them yourself – and to give you support and kindness when you need it most.

When You First Reach Out

Making that first call, or sending that first message, can feel incredibly difficult.

For many people, it’s one of the hardest conversations they’ve ever had to have – and we understand this. We know that sometimes words are hard to find, and emotions can feel overwhelming.

When you contact Infinity, you’ll be met with patience and understanding. helping you through what needs to happen next – something many families have been kind enough to share in their experiences with Infinity.

Many families say that simply having someone speak to them in a gentle and reassuring way makes all the difference in those first moments. And this is always the priority here.

Bringing Your Pet Into Our Care

Some families prefer for their pet to be collected, while others feel more comfortable bringing them to Infinity themselves. There is no right or wrong choice – only what feels most appropriate for you in that moment.

If you choose collection, we will arrive promptly on the day and at the time we agree – or you are more than welcome to bring your pet to Infinity directly.

From the very first moment your pet is entrusted into our care, we take personal responsibility for ensuring they are treated with the utmost respect. Nothing is rushed.

A Quiet Moment to Say Goodbye

For many families, having the opportunity to spend a final moment with their pet can bring a sense of comfort. Our Farewell Room offers a calm, private setting where you can sit with your pet, say goodbye in your own way, and take time before parting.

Take as much time as you need – although we would kindly ask for an awareness that other families may also be waiting to use the space – so we can ensure that everyone is given the same opportunity for a peaceful goodbye.

Some families choose to spend a few quiet minutes, while others may stay a little longer.

We understand just how important this time can be. We have a deep awareness of how much a farewell can help in the early stages of grief.

Choosing How Your Pet Is Returned to You

When the time comes for your pet to be returned to you, there are a number of options available, allowing you to choose what feels most right for you and your family.

Some families prefer a simple and traditional casket, while others may choose an urn or a scatter tube.

For those who would like something a little more personal, there are also comforting keepsake options. Some families choose a soft teddy bear with a discreet, hidden compartment, designed to hold your pet’s ashes – offering a quiet sense of closeness and comfort in the days that follow.

Each option is carefully selected, in discussion with you, to ensure your pet’s ashes are returned in a way that feels respectful and fitting.

Individual Cremation – What This Means for You and Your Pet

One of the most important questions many families have is how cremation works – and how they can be sure that the ashes returned to them belong to their own pet.

It’s a completely natural concern, and one that deserves a clear and reassuring answer.

We understand how much trust is being placed in us. From the moment your pet is received into our care, careful procedures are followed to ensure they are looked after individually at every stage.

When the time comes for your pet’s cremation, everything is carried out in a quiet, private setting. We understand that this part of the journey is often the hardest to imagine.

Each pet is given a unique identification tag, which remains with them throughout the entire process. Your pet is cremated individually, and afterwards, their ashes are carefully collected, prepared and gently placed into the casket, urn, or keepsake you have chosen.

They are then placed alongside any additional items you have requested – such as fur clippings or paw prints – before being returned to you. Some families choose to come and collect their pet in person, while others prefer for them to be brought home. Whichever feels right for you.

For many families, it brings comfort to know their pet is being cared for in this way – as an individual, just as they were in life.

We aim to return your pet to you within 7 days, although in many cases this is much sooner – often within 2 to 3 days. Occasionally, it may take a little longer if you have chosen something more bespoke, such as a particular urn or casket that needs to be specially ordered.

We have a clear understanding that this time is one of the hardest moments in your life. A moment that matters enormously.

Why Families Choose Infinity

When the time comes to choose who will care for a much-loved pet, most families aren’t simply looking for a service.

They are looking for someone who will treat their pet with the same love they have known in life.

Everything is carried out with this knowledge.
Everything is done thoughtfully, and with genuine devotion.

You Are Not Alone

Losing a beloved pet leaves a space that words can rarely fill.

Grief doesn’t follow a straight path, and there is no “right way” to feel. Some days may feel a little easier, others may feel just as heavy as the first.

All of it is part of the love you shared.

If you need time, take it.
If you need support, reach out.
If you simply need a moment to pause and breathe, that’s okay too.

We are always here – not just to guide you through the practical steps, but to support you in whatever way feels right for you. You may also find comfort in our other guides created for those navigating pet loss.

Most of all, please remember this:

The love you shared with your pet does not end here.
It stays with you – in the memories, in the moments, and in the quiet ways they are still part of your life.

Always. Forever. Held in your heart. ❤️

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when a pet is cremated?

At Infinity, cremation means your pet is cared for individually, with the same love, respect and attention they’ve always known.

Will I get my own pet’s ashes back?

Yes. In a family-run, independent crematorium like Infinity, your pet is looked after individually. Your pet receives a unique identification tag and everything is handled respectfully and gently from beginning to end – so you can feel reassured that the ashes returned to you are those of your own beloved pet.

What should I do when my pet dies at home?

If your pet passes at home, you may wish to contact your veterinary practice for guidance, or reach out to a trusted pet crematorium directly. At Infinity, we are always here to talk things through compassionately and help you decide what feels right for you.

Can my pet be collected from my home or the vet?

Yes. You are able to have your pet collected from home or from your vet, whichever you prefer and feels right for you. You should feel comfortable with whichever approach that works the best for you at such a difficult time.

Can I see my pet before cremation?

Yes. Infinity offers a private farewell room where you can spend time with your pet and say goodbye in your own way.

How long does pet cremation take?

Timescales vary, but everything is handled carefully rather than quickly. You will be kept informed throughout, and your pet will be returned to you as soon as possible. At Infinity Pet Crematorium, we aim to return your pet’s ashes within 7 days, although this is often sooner – typically within 2 to 3 days. In some cases, a little more time may be needed if you have chosen a bespoke urn or casket.

What will my pet’s ashes be returned in?

You can choose from a range of options, including caskets, urns, or scatter tubes. Everything is discussed in advance.

Do I need to make decisions straight away?

No. You will never be rushed. Guidance is always available, and you can take the time you need to make the choices that feel right for you and your pet.