Frequently Asked Questions

Pricing: Please contact us for pricing information.

Can you put my pet to sleep?

Your veterinarian is a good point of call to talk through the options for euthanasia of your pet.  If you would prefer your beloved pet to be laid to rest in the comfort of their own home, Our Pet’s Goodbye can assist with organising a home euthanasia: https://www.ourpets.co.nz

How can I be sure the remains I have returned to me are my Pet’s?

Care of your pet while they are with us is of utmost importance, and hence why we have stringent procedures and protocols we follow to ensure the ashes returned to you are your pet.

As pet owners ourselves we understand the extreme importance and trust put in us to ensure we get that right, without exception.

From the moment your pet is left in our care they are assigned their very own personal identity and entry into our database.

Their personal identity will travel with your pet throughout their entire journey with us at Gentle Waters.

Your pet along with their identification will be placed in their own individual vessel/waka, keeping them completely separate during the water cremation process.

When the process is complete your pet’s skeletal (calcium phosphate) remains are processed individually with care and attention, providing complete assurance the ashes you take home are those of your beloved pet.

How long does Water Cremation take?

While the actual water cremation process takes 8-10 hours, it is important to note that there are additional steps involved in your pet’s journey with us at Gentle Waters.  We aim to have your pet returned to you within 5-10 working days and we will be in touch every step of the way.  See Our Pet’s Journey for further details.

If my pet is laid to rest at my vet clinic, can I appoint a Pet Crematorium of my choice?

Absolutely, yes you can appoint a Pet Crematorium of your choice.  Aftercare decisions around your pet are completely you and your family’s decision.  The Guardians at Gentle Waters Pet Cremation are happy to collect your pet from your Veterinary Practice by arrangement.

Can I supply my own urn?

Yes, we will happily utilise your urn of choice for your pet’s remains.

What happens if my pet passes away unexpectedly on a weekend or out of hours?

 This is a hugely distressing time, so please give us a call and we can discuss making arrangements for you to drop off your pet to us or we can arrange collection.

I don’t want my pet’s ashes returned, what will happen to them?

 If you choose not to have your pet’s ashes returned to you, we will ensure they are scattered in a caring and dignified manner.

Do you provide a pick-up service?

Yes, we are happy to pick up your pet by arrangement.  Enquire for pricing details.

If we chose to drop our pet off to your service, are we able to spend some time with them before we leave?

 Yes, we have a room especially for you to farewell your pet.  Please let us know if this is a requirement and we will ensure we have your pet’s room ready for your arrival.  Should you wish to bring another family pet dog to join the farewell process we are happy to accommodate this.  Our pets grieve and look for their housemates too.