Pet crematorium plans to be considered

A local authority is considering adding pet cremations to its range of bereavement services amid "growing demand".

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council bosses said they were developing plans for a separate facility for animals within the grounds of Bradwell Crematorium.

The service would include collection of dead pets from a veterinary practice, as well as a private room for mourners.

The proposed facility would not use any of the equipment in operation at the existing set-up, the council said, with one councillor confirming "absolutely no crossover".

An outline business case for a dedicated pet cremator accommodating animals of up to 50kgs, plus a secondary chamber for smaller animals, is set to be approved.

The council said research showed at least half of pet owners held funerals or memorials to honour the life of their pets.

"We are a nation of animal lovers," said councillor David Hutchison.

"Dogs, cats, rabbits and other species can be as much a part of the family as any other member which is why we're looking to further support residents, like other councils have, by introducing a pet crematorium."

He said there was growing demand for the service, but that it was not currently available without travelling "some miles" outside of the borough.

"Like human cremations, the aim is to provide a professional, bespoke service but I would like to stress that the facilities would operate separately from each other, with absolutely no crossover," he said.

"Our proposed premium service for pets is significantly above and beyond what's available on the market, including a guaranteed return of individual ashes."

The authority would need a licence from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and planning permission, in order to run the proposed operation.

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