Communal pet cremation
In short: In a communal cremation your pet is cremated with other pets and no ashes are returned; the crematorium buries or scatters them. It typically costs £40–£120 in the UK, much less than an individual cremation.
In a communal cremation (sometimes called a group cremation), your pet is cremated together with other pets. Because of this, it isn’t possible for their ashes to be returned to you.
What happens to the ashes
The crematorium buries or scatters the ashes (PDSA: when it’s time to say goodbye). If it matters to you, ask the crematorium where the ashes go and whether you can visit.
Typical cost
Communal cremation typically costs £40–£120 in the UK (vetpricecomparisonsite.co.uk, September 2026). This is a typical range, not a quote. It usually costs much less than an individual cremation. See our price guide for more detail.
Under new rules from the Competition and Markets Authority, vet businesses will have to offer a basic communal cremation service and give you clear prices for it in writing (GOV.UK guidance). See your rights.
When owners choose communal cremation
There’s no right or wrong choice. Owners often choose communal cremation when:
- keeping the ashes isn’t important to them
- they find comfort in their pet being laid to rest with other animals
- cost is a concern
- they would like to keep a different memento instead, such as a paw print or a lock of fur
Can I still have a keepsake?
Often, yes. Before the cremation, you can ask your vet or the crematorium for a lock of fur or a paw print. Blue Cross suggests both as ways to remember your pet (Blue Cross: saying goodbye to your dog). See urns and memorials for more ideas.
Questions to ask
- Where will my pet’s ashes be buried or scattered?
- Is collection included in the price?
- Can I say goodbye before my pet is collected?
- Can I have a paw print or lock of fur first?