WELCOME

 

Who can believe that there is no soul behind
those luminous eyes! - Gautier

 

                                                                          Welcome To Paws And Reflect 
Are you in need of compassionate professional advice about 'what to do' when your pet has passed away?.
Or are you preparing for the best possible outcome for when this does happen?.

We have knowledge of all the Pet Cremation Services in Victoria. We provide a service to care for your deceased pet as if it were you.  

This is a specialist funeral service for all animals. Your animal friend is treated with the respect that he/she deserves. 
Our aim is to provide a dignified burial or cremation, with a ‘pet/personal ceremony,at your request, as a fitting act of farewell.

(Note: We do not own a Pet Cemetery and we are not a Pet Cremation facility).)

We provide a service of collection, and cremation,  with return of your pets ashes within 2/4 days.

We know waiting for up to 10 days for the return of your beloved pets ashes can be too long to wait.
Our 'code of practice' and ethical standards are very high, therefore we ensure individual  cremation.
It is important for you to know  that your pet’s remains are treated with the same concern and care that you gave your pet during their life.
 
We are here to help with :   Collection,Transport, Cremation, Burials and/or  Ceremony 
                                                 Grief and Pet Loss Resources.


 Please feel free to text us if the matter is urgent  - or call for information, so we may assist you . No obligaton-free advice.
   
Call Mobile: Caroline 0408 366 341
Email: pawsandreflectpetfunerals@hotmail.com  
Join Paws and Reflect on Facebook 
                                                                                       

 

ABOUT US

 

Love me, Love my dog - Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

 

Hello my name is Caroline.

I have been conducting a variety of ceremonies for over 15 years, having studied The History, Nature And Development Of Ceremony. 

I feel  a close affinity with all animals and like many people who  have made deep connections with animals (sometimes more than with other humans ). I felt the need to go one step further and really honour these animals in a better way rather than leaving them at the vet clinic. I began this Pet Funeral Sevice in 2010 and find that like minded animal lovers connect with me and what I do and understand the importance of this service.

I have had the pleasure of caring for my own animals. Horses, cows, a goat named 'Dolly' , at one time ducks, geese, chickens and lizards-many dogs and cats. Every single one worthy of a dignified goodbye and my sincere gratitude.
 
In 1995 I was given a Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy that changed my relationship with animals. His name was Monk. He was an incredible canine. A peaceful, loving and quiet male, whose presence had a calming effect on everyone that met him. Monk touched so many lives and  was a soul mate. He was not just a pet! Unfortunately he passed away on my birthday in 2010. He was near 15 yrs old. To this day, the waves of grief can still come  unexpectedly.
This service has been created in response to the gratitude I feel for the 15 years Monk shared my life.

In 1994 I trained in a spiritual modality to help animals pass over. Regardless of what faith you may hold sending your pets spirit to a peaceful place is harmless.
May we live long so we may remember them long!

EUTHANASIA

 

A dog naps so much because it loves so hard - anon

 

The debate on euthanasia doesn’t seem to include animals. A train of thought is that the animal is ‘put out of their misery.’ A preferred option for this sometimes-traumatic moment, is to ask your vet to come to your home, where the pet feels comfortable with less stress.

Euthanasia is fast. You really need time to reflect, spending time with your pet before this ultimate action, as it can really create a sense of shock and disbelief. This is one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make therefore having a clear discussion with your vet about the pets prognosis is the most vital conversation you can have at this time.

Are we  ever ready to make that final decision? Yes,we are- from love and compassion we can decide  not to prolong any more suffering within our pet.

There are different opinions and beliefs about this issue, ultimately it is your beliefs and opinions that will support your decision .
Another difficult decision will come soon after your pets passing; whether to cremate or bury your pet. Nothing can take away your sadness; however, your choice will hopefully make you feel that you have given your all to this loyal friend.

Our service can provide you with peace of mind. Before  collection of your pet we can discuss your requirements.

We Recommend-Dr Aish Ryan-Home Visit Veterinarian.0433 687 838 www.vetsathome.com.au

TRANSPORT

 

You can't own a cat. The best you
can do is be partners - Sir Harry Swanson

 


Collection of your beloved pet can be organised within a short time frame if you call as soon as the death of your pet has occured.
Collection can be from home or your preferred veterinary clinic.
Your pet is treated gently and calmly. Your pet will be carefully  wrapped in their own blanket,then placed within a unique silk body bag. 
Placed  in the Paws And Reflect Pet Funeral Services  SUV.

You will know exactly where your pet is at every moment. I will keep in contact with you to inform you of all the stages I am attending to.

 Transport to and from the selected cremation facility from Melbourne, is a round trip  of 2 hours and 30 mins. I have worked with and  chosen  a facility based on the fact that they have a moral and ethical approach to what their role is. That the animals are an extension of the people/person that loves them.

Pet Cemetery -Pets Eternal.

The latest exciting news is that there is a  new  Pet Cemetery having just started operation in Narre Warren. Call Terry 0422 666 212.


 We will endeavour to make this experience for you as stress free as possible, given the sadness you will feel.



 

CREMATION

 

I love cats because I enjoy my home and little by
little, they become it's visible soul - Jean Cocteau

 


Cremations take place individually and the provider of this service shares our respect for deceased pets..We see pets as a beloved family member or best friend and confidantes.. Your pet is the only individual cared for by Paws And Reflect on this day to ensure the service takes place as if you were caring for the pet yourself.

You will be notified by email and text to confirm our arrangements and your details/requests..

Only single animals can be placed in the cremation chamber.

Your pets ashes will be placed in a new scatter tin, as we  complete the service in less time product is not the main focus.
We recommend you source your own choice of urn or box.
Please see the  header Links provided for Pet Urns.

[Join Paws and Reflect on Facebook]

BURIAL

 

Dogs are not our whole life,
but they make our lives whole - Cara

 

We do not own or run a pet cemetery.

 However,  there is a  new  Pet Cemetery having just started operation in Pets Eternal, Narre Warren.
 Call Terry 0422 666 212.



 If you own land or have permission to bury your pet in your backyard this is a viable option.




Animalia Pet Cemetery in Bacchus Marsh has ceased operation. It is now closed to the public unfortunately.

 

CEREMONY

 

A meow massages the heart - Stuart McMillan

 

The death of a pet is one of the most ignored events in society, and yet it is one of the most profound losses we can ever experience. A ceremony celebrates thier life, and offers you and your community an opportunity to explore and express your grief in a way meaningful to you.

If you decide to have a ceremony for your pet we will discuss your preferences. A eulogy can be created with our help and a special ceremony conducted at your home or the pet cemetery. At the cemetery family and friends can be present to farewell your pet with a viewing and procession if requested. You may like to tell me some of the stories you have about your pet, and show some treasured photos. We will also offer you resource material, co-creating the text with you.

This ceremony highlights the fact that pets are family members and honouring a family member is what we do because we love them.

An altar is individually  created for your pet with flowers, candles and incense.

Note: Children are very attached to their pets so we offer special guidance on how to involve children in a ceremony to help them through the grieving process.

FEES

 

Kindness and compassion toward all living things is
the mark of a civilised society - Cesar Chavez

 


Note: Fees are based on cremation facility fees, petrol/travel time.

TWO/FOUR DAY RETURN OF PETS ASHES.from $200 to $300.00 small/medium sized pets.  
                                                                             $300.00 to $400.00 large /depending on collection location .
Note - A collection After Hours/Weekends may incur a small extra fee.
EXCLUSIVE SAME DAY RETURN OF PETS ASHES. from-$380.00.upto $550.00.depending on location and size of pet.



Fee includes: Individual Collection of Beloved Pet in Silk Body Bag, Transport from Melbourne to Cremation facility- 90 mins.
Cremation Approx:.2-3 hours,  New Scatter Tin, Cremation Certificate.

If you are in the Mornington area or Dandenong area I recommend you call Pearly Mates as they are located on that side of town.

FAREWELL CEREMONY. Written text. Ritual Elements and tools provided.Performed at Pet Cemetery or home. $150.00

LINKS

 

A dog has the soul of a philospher - Plato

 

Links
www.grieftoinspiration.com
       
www.mypetloss.com
www.pearlymates.com.au


Memorial Products.
www.casketsdirect.com.au.         (pet urns)
www.australianmemorialsupplies.com.au
www.petcremationurns.com.au
www.cherubspetcoffins.com.au

Cherubs Carpentry and Joinery (caskets) Rob 0418889522
Pet Caskets Of Distinction -and Exhumation. Ashton  0417 336 500.
Pocket Pet Cremation. https://www.facebook.com/FureverAfterCremation/
Australian Ceramic Photos -Mel. 9770 6893 Includes Pet Rock Memorials.

 

TESTIMONIALS

 

An animal's eye have the power to speak a
great language - Martin Buber

 

      Testimonials.                                                    .

Sebastian.16th January,2011.
Thank you, for your service. I had spoken to other cremation services and instantly knew that you would be respectful and supportive of my request. On behalf of animal lovers everyhere. Thank you. Antonella Caruso

Join Paws and Reflect on Facebook For more tributes and to add yours..

Abbi, . 9 years old..

I just wanted to say thank you so much for the sensitive and respectful way you conducted the cremation of our darling Abbi. 
It really was our good fortune, or karma, to find someone who so perfectly matched our requirements. 
From the moment I spoke to you on the phone, to the considered, tender collection of Abbi, to keeping us in touch at the commencement of the ceremony, I felt a calmness and comfort knowing we had made the right choice.    
 She meant the world to us and so did your empathetic treatment to farewell her.
   Pam Oka and Family..

Lemon..2 yrs old.It's amazing what you do and I cant thank you enough.Just to know someone was there with Lemon.
                                                     You have made a very difficult time much easier
.                         Nicky Holt.
Lucie. 16 yrs old.
Thankyou for all that you are doing to help the little ones and the people.With loving thoughts.Margaret Grace.

Buddy.12 yrs.
Your respect and kindness to Buddy has given him "the best send off"-we could have hoped for!The Wilkens.

Lady
..16 yrs old.Thankyou for your kindness and compassion.Your sensitive handling and intuitive understanding gave us much comfort and some closure with Lady's passing.
Annie

 

TRIBUTES

 

Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms - George Elliot

 

GoGo-.15 yrs old.Thankyou you for your beautiful message and flowers.I got very emotional again after I saw them.Thanks again for all your help with 'Go' you made this process so much easier and we are all very appreciative.All the best.Carmen

Gizmo.  14 yrs old.Thankyou for taking my bubs so beautifully and keeping me informed.Anne Roberts

Max .12 yrs old.Thank you very much Caroline, for bringing our dear Max home.God Bless You.Jorge Fallas.

Titus. ,15 yrs old.Thankyou for taking the time to speak with me.I am so glad I came across you and your service and the fact you understood about my
15 yr old beautiful baby boy staffy Titus.Sharon.

 

TRIBUTES

 

Our perfect companions never have fewer
than four feet - Colette

 

My Monk- 'The Legend'. He is buried at Animalia Pet Cemetery.Bacchus Marsh.

Memories Of Monk
.
Monk. He was a very very special and unique dog, so dignified and proud, self assured and good looking. cuddly, loyal, etc etc - wow if you could get a partner half as good as Monk - you would be blessed/lucky. He had a wonderful life with you - lucky dog.
Marian Doyle

That monkey was loved by so many, he was in more conversations than any dog I had met, my friends would ask about you and imminently Monk or vise-versa. You are in my thoughts all the time.
Leslie Montgomery

 

 

MEDIA

 

The greatest love is a mother's;
then a dog's; then a sweetheart's - Polish Proverb

 

2018 The Melbourne Writers Festival. Animal Church. Pet Remembrance Ceremony.
2017 Interview about Monk, my Staffy, Podcast for https://www.facebook.com/humanordinarypodcast/

2015 ABC RN Afternoons. 
http://nucwed.aus.aunty.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rnafternoons/rising-demand-for-pet-funeral-services/7017450

2011 Northcote Leader

http://northcote-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/a-time-to-reflect/

Interview with Red Symons ABC 774 November 2010
Interview with Paul Murray 2UE 954 Newstalk July 2012
Arts Project.My Best Friend.Edinburgh Gardens.August.2014.

Harriet Magazine
Northcote Our People February 2011
http://issuu.com/whoisharriet/docs/issueone

The Age Newspaper-Monday 30th July 2012

http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/backyard-burials-no-more-as-family-pets-sent-off-in-style-20120729-236ea.html
I was mis quoted as 'chanting throughout the cremation of a pet". I do not chant unless it is requested.