We wholeheartedly believe that pets are members of the family. Grieving their loss is no different from grieving the loss of human friends and family. Understanding this, we treat each pet in our care with the highest level of compassion, dignity and respect. We know that pet parents want what is best for their pets and we are here to guide you through this process.

Our facility is in Woodbury County, Iowa, east along Hwy 20, just outside of Sioux City.

Cremation is a process by which the body is reduced to its basic elements using extreme heat within a cremation chamber. All organic matter is consumed by heat or evaporation. The remaining bone fragments are referred to as “cremated remains”. These “cremated remains” are what is returned to the pet parents.

We have implemented a process which ensures accuracy during every moment your pet is in our care. A unique identification number accompanies your pet every step of the way, and logs and signatures are required before each step is taken. We abide by strict policies and procedures to ensure accuracy and attention to details. Furthermore, we are members of organizations that govern our standards, ethics, policies and procedures. These organizations include the Pet Loss Professional Alliance (PLPA) and the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC).

Should this option be chosen, you can be assured that your pet is receiving a dignified farewell. We mix the cremated remains in with soil to be used in planting trees and flower beds.

We abide by strict environmental standards and are closely monitored by regulatory agencies regarding our emissions. Because of this, we do not allow plastic toys, balls, etc. to be cremated with your pet. We will allow small swatches of beds or blankets made of natural fibers to be cremated with your pet.

Yes. You can request additional urns, paw prints, fur clippings and certificates for families, siblings, or co-owners of the pet. Additional fees do apply. Please contact us for details regarding this service.

For each cremation we issue a certificate of cremation. The certificate shows your pet’s name, the date of their cremation along with their unique identification number.

After we’ve received your pet and they are in our care, we ask that you allow 7 to 10 business days for Paws to complete the cremation service because our Private Cremation service allows one pet only during the cremation process ensuring your pet is cremated respectfully and guarantees that the ashes you receive are only those of your pet.

Once the cremation service is complete, we will call you to arrange pick up of your pet’s ashes. The ashes are returned to you in a complimentary container. Payment is due upon pick up of your pets’ ashes. You will receive a certificate of cremation with your pet’s name and the date of cremation.

*We recommend purchasing an urn after your pet’s cremains are returned to you, so you can gauge the appropriate size needed based on the amount of cremains returned.