Who to Phone When Your Pet Dies

If it happened at the vet

They will ask what you want done and you can say you need to think. Ask them to hold your pet while you decide — practices have cold storage and this is routine. Do not let the fact that someone is waiting push you into a decision you have not made.

If it happened at home in normal hours

Your own vet first. They will either take your pet in or tell you which crematorium collects in your area. This one call usually solves the whole thing.

If it happened at home after hours

An emergency veterinary hospital. Most will accept a deceased pet overnight. Phone before driving. If you would rather not move your pet tonight, keep them somewhere cool and phone in the morning — that is a legitimate choice.

If cost is the problem

Your local SPCA. Say plainly that money is tight. They deal with this constantly and will not make you explain yourself at length.

If you cannot face any of it

Message us. One WhatsApp and we make the calls, find the crematorium, arrange collection and keep you updated. R500, including a paw print keychain, and no commission from anyone. Some people just need someone else to pick up the phone.