posted 15th October 2025
We know that losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest moments you can go through. Whether expected or sudden, saying goodbye to your companion at home can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re unsure what to do next.
We understand just how emotional this time can be. We're here to guide you gently through what to do, helping you take each step with care, dignity, and love.
Take a Moment to Say Goodbye
First and foremost, take your time. It’s okay to pause, sit with your pet, and say goodbye in your own way. Talk to them, stroke their fur, light a candle — whatever feels right.
If there are children or other pets at home, allowing them to say goodbye too can help them understand and grieve. There’s no need to rush; this is your moment with your companion.
Checking for Signs of Passing
If you’re unsure whether your pet has passed, you can check for:
- No breathing or movement
- Fixed pupils
- Absence of a heartbeat
If you’re not certain, you can contact your vet or an out-of-hours veterinary service. They’ll be able to confirm what’s happened and offer support and advice.
Keeping Your Pet Safe Until Collection
If your pet has passed at home, you can help keep them safe and comfortable until we arrive.
- Place them on a soft blanket or towel in a quiet, cool room away from direct sunlight.
- Gently position them on their side with their legs extended — this helps them look peaceful.
- Keep the room cool by opening a window or using a fan if needed.
If you'd prefer collection not to happen straight away, you can carefully wrap your pet in a blanket and place them in a cool area such as on a tiled floor.
Please don’t worry — we’ll always attend promptly and treat your pet with the utmost care when we arrive.
Contacting a Pet Cremation Service
You have several options for what to do next:
- Call us directly. Rainbow Bridge Pet Funerals can collect your pet from your home and explain your cremation choices clearly and gently.
- Consider a home burial. In some cases, you may wish to bury your pet at home if local regulations and your property allow. We can guide you if you’re unsure.
Whatever you choose, please ensure your provider is APHA-approved (like us). This guarantees your pet is handled lawfully, respectfully, and in line with animal by-product regulations.
Remembering Your Pet
When your pet’s ashes are returned, you may wish to find a special way to remember them. Some families keep their ashes at home, while others scatter them in a favourite place or create a small memorial in the garden.
We can provide a range of personalised urns, keepsakes, and memorial items if you’d like to keep your pet close. However you choose to remember them, there’s no right or wrong way — only what brings you comfort.
We’re Here When You Need Us
If your pet passes away at home, please know you don’t have to face it alone. We're a caring team and we're here to help — whether it’s advice over the phone, arranging collection, or simply offering a kind word when you need it most.
Our promise is that every pet entrusted to us is treated with the same love and dignity we’d want for our own.
If you need us, please don’t hesitate to call us on 01204 263 115. We’re here whenever you need support.