Heaven’s Pets

While this is seemingly difficult to write, it’s also quite easy because it’s a good feeling to be FTR (first to review) an incredibly deserving business. Heaven’s Pets provides pet owners with a necessary service: they help you say goodbye and honor your beloved furry friend who gave you years of unconditional love.
My 16 year-​old-​cat, Iphy, died at home last Wednesday. While deeply saddened by the loss of my best friend who had been at my side for practically my entire adult life (through 10 moves, 5 jobs, countless life events), I’m glad she died at home, where I had been with her almost non stop for three days. When your pet dies at home, you of course have to take matters of remains into your own hands. When researching crematory services for pets, not much came up. There is a place on the Westbank that came recommended by my vet and then I found the website for Heaven’s Pets and was won over by them because they are completely transparant about fees and what these fees include. The fact that bereavement counseling is included in the fees was especially impressive, as well as the fact that I read that they let you spend time with your beloved before they are taken away and you are also counseled a bit (if you want) at that time. They leave the grieving process up to you but offer guidance when needed. Amazing.
With a heavy heart, I brought her in. The building is located in Lake Lawn Cemetery, just follow the signs. I was greeted by a kind lady who offered to wheel out a gurney to pick up my girl. This was handled with such respect, I’m choked up right now. This kind lady then sat down with me to discuss options, not unlike what happens in any funeral home. The cost is determined by weight and 1−20lbs is $ 175 for a private cremation with remains returned to you in a lovely little hand-​carved wooden box. You can also opt to receive a piece of hair and a paw print (I opted for the hair only. I couldn’t bear to see her paw print for some reason).
Although they said it might take up to three days, Iphy was ready to be picked up the next day. I had to wait until Saturday to do so (they are open 9 – 1 on Saturday). When I went to pick her up, another extremely kind lady greeted me, as did the most darling dog. While she met with me to discuss the remains (a number is assigned to your pet and that number stays with them throughout the process so that you know it’s your pet, again, similar to people) a wonderful thing happened. An adorable orange cat entered the room and made a beeline for me! She sat on the table in front of me, while the dog was at my feet and I just felt so incredibly at peace right then.
I cannot recommend this business enough. I just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you so much, Heaven’s Pets for existing. Once you use their service, you can attend aforementioned bereavement group sessions once a week. Although I think I’m OK, I can think of situations in the past when such a service would be very valuable.
By the way, the lovely orange kitty is up for adoption from the Humane Society. It’s an ongoing thing with them– they always have a cat on the premises who is up for adoption. Brilliant, no?