Frequently Asked Questions, FAQ
Our pets give us a lifetime of joy, loyalty, and unconditional love. They are truly part of our family, which makes saying goodbye one of the hardest moments we face.
To help support you during this deeply emotional time, we have created these Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to gently guide you and answer common concerns when it comes to pet cremation.
We are here to walk alongside you, offering care, understanding, and reassurance as you honour the life of your beloved companion.
At Buddy, every pet entrusted to us is treated with the utmost dignity, compassion, and respect at every stage of the journey. We are honoured support families across Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, and the Blue Mountains.
Do you offer pet cremation services in my area?
Buddy currently offers pet cremation services the Greater Sydney area, NSW – including the Blue Mountains, Newcastle and Wollongong.
You can book your service online, or contact us if you have any questions or need assistance.
How can I be sure I will receive my pets ashes?
To give you peace of mind that your beloved pet, and only your beloved pet, has returned home to you, Buddy tracks them every step of the way. Here are the details on our 3 points of tracking:
- At the time of making your booking, your pet ‘s details were shared with us and they were allocated a unique booking number in our system. This number can be found on your cremation certificate, and is the first half of your tracking ID.
- Before your pet was transferred into our care, they were gently labelled with their details by our trusted vet friends. Buddy diligently confirms that the details on your pet’s label match the details shared with us in your booking.
- The moment your pet was transferred into our care, they were given a second unique tracking number, written on a stainless steel disc. This disc was carefully attached to your beloved pet’s paw, and stayed with them throughout their service. You will find this disc with your pet’s remains, and the unique tracking number is the second half of your tracking ID on your cremation certificate.
If you have any questions about the tracking and safe return of your pet, please do not hesitate to give us a call on 1300 172 329.
How long before my pet is returned home?
As soon as your cremation booking is confirmed will arrange for your pet to be transferred to our care. Once the cremation is complete we will be in contact to arrange a convenient time to return your pet home.
How do I book a cremation?
You can call us or book online here or contact us if you have any questions or need assistance.
We know making a decision can be difficult when you have just lost a pet, feel free to reach out if you need any help, or have any questions.
What memorial keepsakes do you have?
Buddy has a wide variety of memorial keepsakes and urns available. Most of these are manufactured locally at our facility in outer Sydney. To view our products see our Keepsakes.
What if my pet passes at home?
We can arrange collection of your pet from your home. However, it is best if this can be done in consultation with the veterinarian team on the day so we can ensure you have time to say goodbye before we collect your pet.
What if the death was sudden and not planned?
We understand that accidents happen, a cremation can be booked at any time, so long as we know where we can collect your pet, and return the ashes home, we can arrange a cremation.
What type of pets can Buddy cremate?
Buddy has its own custom built crematorium so we can cremate pets up to around 99 kilograms. These include cats, dogs, birds, exotic reptiles, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, and other members of your pet family.
Where is my pet cremated?
Your pet is cremated at our offices in outer Sydney; we have a custom-built crematory on site. Our team are with your pet throughout the process.
Can I be there when my pet is cremated?
Unfortunately, no, the crematorium is within our offices in outer Sydney and due to compliance and regulation visitors are not allowed at the site.
What is a shared cremation?
A shared cremation means your pet may be cremated with other pets and the ashes will therefore be for all of the pets cremated at that time. We call this service ‘With Friends’.
Do you offer funeral services for my pet?
How long does it take to cremate a pet?
Cremation time depends on the size of the pet and some other factors, usually between 2-8 hours.
Should I bury my pet at home?
If you’re thinking about laying your pet to rest in your backyard or garden, it’s always best to check with your local council first. Rules can vary between areas, and we want to make sure everything is done safely and respectfully.
It’s also important to know that if your pet was euthanised, the anaesthetic used can be harmful to other pets and wildlife if buried. For this reason, we gently recommend choosing a private cremation. It offers a safe, dignified way to honour your pet—while giving you the chance to keep them close in a way that feels right for you.