Overview of Pet Cremation in Tennessee

 

When a beloved animal companion dies, many families find that pet cremation in Tennessee offers a practical and meaningful way to say goodbye. Across the state—from Memphis and Nashville to Knoxville and small rural communities—dedicated pet crematories, pet cemeteries, and veterinary partners now offer a range of options so you can choose what feels right for your family and your pet.

In Tennessee, pet cremation is treated differently from human funeral care. The Tennessee Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers notes that it does not regulate pet cremation or pet crematories, and pets cannot be buried with human remains that fall under the funeral board’s oversight. 

However, Tennessee law does include specific rules for anyone who accepts animal remains for cremation in exchange for payment. Under Tennessee Code §39-14-218, providers must give written receipts both when they receive your pet and when they return your pet’s ashes, including details such as your pet’s name (if any) and the date and time of transfer. 

Most families encounter pet cremation providers through their veterinarian, a dedicated pet funeral home, or a stand-alone pet crematory. Many of these businesses also offer pet urns, paw-print keepsakes, fur clippings, and memorial items. If you choose to keep your pet’s ashes at home, you can explore beautiful pet urns for ashes—including dog and cat urns in wood, metal, and ceramic—through online retailers such as Funeral.com’s pet cremation urns for ashes collection. 

 

Average Pet Cremation Costs in Tennessee

 

Every provider sets its own prices, and pet cremation costs depend heavily on your pet’s size, where you live in Tennessee, and the specific services you choose. The numbers below are based on current pricing from Tennessee pet crematories and pet cemeteries as of late 2025 and are meant only as approximate ranges—always confirm details directly with the provider.

 

Communal pet cremation (no ashes returned)

 

In a communal pet cremation, multiple pets are cremated together, and ashes are not returned to families. This is usually the lowest-cost option.

Some Tennessee providers list communal cremation around $90–$150 for a typical dog or cat. For example, Shackelford Pet Services in Savannah charges about $95 for communal cremation. 

For very small pets (such as small cats or pocket pets), prices may fall a bit lower, while very large dogs may be slightly higher. On a statewide basis, a realistic range for communal pet cremation in Tennessee is roughly $75–$175.

 

Private/individual pet cremation (ashes returned)

 

In a private or individual pet cremation, your pet is cremated alone and the ashes are returned to you, usually in a temporary container or a simple pet urn.

Current Tennessee examples include:

 

• Constant Companion Pet Crematorium in Cleveland lists a private cremation service around $125 plus the cost of the urn, including a velvet keepsake bag and certificate. 

• Shackelford Pet Services lists an individual cremation at around $295, with ashes returned and a cremation certificate (urns are extra). 

• Cherished FurEver Pet Funeral Home & Crematory in Soddy-Daisy offers weight-based packages that, for many pets, fall between about $185 and $395. 

 

Across Tennessee, that means a typical range for private pet cremation costs is approximately $150–$350 for small and medium pets, and up to $400 or more for very large dogs.

 

Private pet cremation with a simple memorial or viewing

 

Some families choose a more ceremonial experience—perhaps spending time in a viewing room before or during cremation, or combining cremation with burial of the urn in a pet cemetery.

For example, Dixie Memorial Pet Gardens near Millington (Memphis area) offers a private cremation with urn burial and granite marker in their cremation garden at around $750, and separate pricing for burial of previously cremated pets. 

When you add a short service, use of a chapel or viewing room, or urn burial in a cemetery section, it’s common for total pet cremation costs in Tennessee to fall somewhere between $250 and $800+, depending on the location, your pet’s size, and the memorial options you choose.

Again, these are approximate ranges. Prices vary significantly over time and between providers, so it’s important to request an itemized price list for current, accurate figures.

 

Pet Cremation Laws and Legal Requirements in Tennessee

 

 

Legality of pet cremation

 

Pet cremation in Tennessee is legal, and there are multiple permitted options for the disposal of animal remains. For larger animals such as horses and livestock, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and University of Tennessee guidance mention burial, composting, incineration/cremation, landfill, and other methods, with a general expectation that carcasses be disposed of within about 48 hours to avoid health risks. 

 

Regulation of pet crematories

 

Tennessee’s funeral board explicitly states that it does not regulate pet cremation or pet crematories, and pets cannot be buried with human remains that are under funeral-board oversight. 

However, other state rules still apply:

 

• Under Tennessee Code §39-14-218, anyone who cremates animal remains for payment must provide a written receipt when taking custody of the animal and another receipt when returning the ashes, each signed by both parties and containing basic information (such as the pet’s name, and date and time of transfer). 

• Pet crematories are subject to air-quality permitting and emissions rules under guidance issued by the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation for animal/pet crematories. 

 

From a family’s perspective, these rules mostly work in the background. In practice, you should expect to sign paperwork when you authorize pet cremation, and you should receive some form of receipt or documentation both when your pet is taken into care and when the ashes are returned.

 

Home burial and scattering

 

Statewide guidance about burying or disposing of animals focuses primarily on environmental health and avoiding nuisances (for example, preventing contaminated runoff or attracting wildlife). 

For small companion animals, many Tennessee communities allow pet burial on private property as long as depth, distance from water sources, and other health-related conditions are met. Local ordinances vary, especially inside city limits, so it’s important to:

 

• Check your city or county codes

• Confirm any HOA or neighborhood-association rules

• Ask your veterinarian or local animal control if you’re unsure

 

Scattering pet ashes on your own property is generally treated more like a private family decision, but scattering on public land, lakes, or rivers may be restricted. When in doubt, contact the park service, land-managing agency, or local authorities before scattering.

Nothing here is legal advice; it’s a general overview to help guide your questions.

 

Types of Pet Cremation and Service Options in Tennessee

 

Families in Tennessee typically see three main types of pet cremation:

 

• Communal cremation, in which several pets are cremated together and ashes are not returned.

• Private or individual cremation, where only one pet is in the chamber and ashes are returned to the family, often in a basic pet urn or container.

• Partitioned or semi-private cremation, offered by some providers, where multiple pets are in the same chamber but separated in ways intended to keep ashes distinct. This may still be treated as “individual” by the provider, so ask for details if this matters to you. 

 

Beyond the basic cremation type, many Tennessee pet cremation providers also offer:

 

• Transport from your home or veterinary clinic

• A brief viewing or farewell time before cremation

• Clay or ink paw prints, fur clippings, or nameplates

• A basic temporary urn, with optional upgrade to decorative pet urns

• Access to grief resources or support groups

 

If you’d like to create a home memorial, you might choose a decorative pet urn, a photo urn, or even pet cremation jewelry that lets you keep a tiny portion of ashes close. Funeral.com offers a range of pet cremation jewelry as well as a gentle explainer on cremation urns, pet urns, and cremation jewelry, which can help you understand sizes and styles before you decide. 

 

Cultural Norms and Local Practices Around Pet Cremation in Tennessee

 

Tennessee has a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities, and attitudes toward pet cremation reflect that variety. In cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis, it’s common for families to use a dedicated pet cremation provider and create an in-home memorial with a favorite photo, candle, and pet urn on a shelf or mantle. Statewide, many families—regardless of religious background—now talk openly about pets as true family members.

Pet cemeteries such as Dixie Memorial Pet Gardens near Memphis offer traditional burial, urn gardens, and markers on landscaped grounds, appealing to families who like the idea of a physical place to visit. 

At the same time, there’s a growing trend toward keeping ashes at home and building small, personal memorials. Funeral.com’s recent article on why people still cry over pets years after their loss notes that many families create quiet in-home spaces that preserve their pet’s presence—a framed photo, collar, or favorite toy displayed alongside a pet urn or cremation jewelry. 

In short, there is no single “right” way to remember a pet in Tennessee. Whether you choose burial, pet cremation, or a mix of options, what matters most is that the choice reflects your family’s values and your bond with your pet.

 

How to Choose a Pet Cremation Provider in Tennessee

 

When comparing pet cremation providers in Tennessee, it can help to focus on:

 

• Transparency of process

  Ask how your pet is identified, how they ensure you receive your own pet’s ashes after a private cremation, and whether you can tour the facility or see the cremation equipment.

• Documentation and receipts

  Confirm that you’ll receive written paperwork when your pet is taken into care and when ashes are returned, in line with Tennessee’s requirements for animal cremation services. 

• Accreditation and memberships

  Some providers, such as Dixie Memorial Pet Gardens, highlight membership in national organizations like the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories, which set professional standards for pet aftercare. 

• Range of services and memorial options

  Consider whether you want communal, private, or witnessed cremation; burial or urn-garden placement; and options such as paw prints, fur clippings, or pet memorial products.

• Clear, written pricing

  Ask for an itemized price list, including transport, cremation type, urns, and extras. Compare this with other providers in your region to understand your options.

 

After cremation, many families also look for a special pet urn, keepsake, or cremation jewelry. Browsing curated collections such as Funeral.com’s pet cremation urns for ashes and pet cremation jewelry can help you get a sense of styles and sizes before you purchase. 

 

Notable Pet Cremation Providers in Tennessee

 

Here are several pet cremation providers in Tennessee to use as a starting point for your own research. This list is not a recommendation or endorsement of any business—always evaluate providers based on your needs, location, and comfort level.

Faithful Companion Pet Cremation Services – Nashville, TN

Provides dedicated pet cremation in Tennessee’s Nashville area, focusing on respectful handling and helping families find closure after the loss of a pet. 

Pet Cremation Services of East Tennessee – Knoxville, TN

Offers communal and private pet cremation for families in and around Knoxville, with an emphasis on dignity, care, and memorial products. 

Cherished FurEver Pet Funeral Home & Crematory – Soddy-Daisy (Chattanooga area), TN

A pet funeral home and crematory that provides weight-based cremation packages, urn options, and personalized keepsakes such as paw prints and fur clippings for pet families in the Chattanooga region. 

Constant Companion Pet Crematorium – Cleveland, TN

A dedicated pet crematorium serving Cleveland and surrounding communities, with private and communal cremation options and grief-support resources for families. 

Dixie Memorial Pet Gardens – Millington (Memphis area), TN

A long-standing pet cemetery and cremation provider offering burial plots, urn gardens, cremation services, and markers on a large landscaped property near Memphis. 

Shackelford Pet Services – Savannah, TN

Part of a regional funeral-care group, this provider offers communal and individual pet cremation as well as private burial options for families in Hardin County and surrounding areas. 

Again, this is not a complete list and not an endorsement. It’s simply a snapshot of some pet cremation providers in Tennessee to help you start comparing options near you.

 

FAQs About Pet Cremation in Tennessee

 

 

Is pet cremation in Tennessee legal?

 

Yes. Pet cremation in Tennessee is legal, and there are multiple permitted ways to handle animal remains, including cremation, burial, and other methods, as long as environmental and health rules are followed. 

 

What are the main differences between communal and private pet cremation?

 

In a communal pet cremation, several animals are cremated together and ashes are not separated or returned. In a private (individual) pet cremation, only your pet is in the chamber and the ashes are returned to you, typically in a container or pet urn. Some providers offer “partitioned” cremation, where pets are separated by barriers but share a chamber—ask how they define and label each option. 

 

How much does pet cremation typically cost in Tennessee?

 

Pet cremation costs in Tennessee vary, but communal cremation often ranges from about $75–$175, while private cremation commonly falls between $150–$350 for many dogs and cats, with higher prices for very large pets or packages that include services, urn burial, or memorials. 

 

Can I keep my pet’s ashes at home or in a pet urn?

 

Yes. Many Tennessee families choose to keep ashes at home in decorative pet urns, photo urns, or small keepsake urns that hold a portion of the ashes. Collections like Funeral.com’s pet urns for ashes offer styles that blend into home décor while still feeling meaningful and respectful. 

 

Where can I scatter my pet’s ashes in Tennessee?

 

On your own property (or private land with the owner’s permission), families generally have wide latitude to scatter pet ashes, as long as it does not create a nuisance or health issue. Scattering on public land, in parks, or in rivers and lakes may be restricted or require permission from the managing agency, so it’s important to check local rules before you scatter. 

 

How long does pet cremation usually take?

 

The actual cremation for a typical dog or cat usually takes a couple of hours, depending on size and equipment. However, the overall timeline—from when your pet is picked up to when ashes are ready—can range from one to several days in Tennessee, depending on the provider’s schedule, your vet’s involvement, and any memorial services you plan.

 

Are there size-based price differences for dogs vs. cats vs. small pets?

 

Yes. Most pet cremation providers in Tennessee use weight-based tiers, with smaller pets (such as cats and small dogs) at the lower end of the price range and large-breed dogs or very large animals at the higher end. Providers like Cherished FurEver publish tiered pricing structures showing how costs increase with weight. 

 

How do I know I’m getting back my own pet’s ashes?

 

Reputable providers rely on clear identification and tracking, such as metal ID tags, barcodes, or numbered stickers that stay with your pet throughout the process. Tennessee law also requires written receipts when remains are received and when ashes are returned, which supports a documented chain of custody. You can ask the provider to explain their procedures in detail and, if you wish, request a witnessed cremation. 

 

What kinds of pet urns or pet memorials are available?

 

Families can choose from traditional vase-style pet urns, wooden box urns, photo urns, biodegradable urns for burial or scattering, and small keepsake urns that hold a tiny amount of ashes. Many also select cremation jewelry—necklaces, bracelets, or charms that hold a small portion of ashes—such as those described in Funeral.com’s pieces on cremation urns, pet urns, and cremation jewelry and the emotional meaning of cremation jewelry for people and pets. 

 

Can I plan ahead for my pet’s aftercare?

 

Yes. Many Tennessee pet cremation providers and veterinarians welcome advance planning, whether your pet is elderly, managing a serious illness, or you simply want to avoid rushed decisions in a crisis. You can:

 

• Ask about prices and cremation types

• Decide whether you want communal or private cremation

• Pre-select a pet urn or cremation jewelry you like

• Note any wishes about scattering or memorial services

 

Writing these choices down and sharing them with family members or your veterinarian can make a difficult day a little less overwhelming.

 

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Final note: Laws, regulations, and pet cremation costs in Tennessee change over time, and local rules can differ between cities and counties. Always confirm details directly with your chosen pet cremation provider, your veterinarian, and official state or local sources before making final decisions.