Reputation of Pet Crematorium Grows
Trafford Council’s pet crematorium is going from strength to strength as it marks its fourth year in operation.
Dunham Lawn Pet Funeral Services, based in its own separate building in the grounds of Altrincham Crematorium and Dunham Lawn cemetery, has been providing bespoke cremations for owners of beloved dogs and cats, and even lizards, guinea pigs and hamsters since 2022.
The Council became the first in Greater Manchester to open such a facility after spotting a desire among local people for pets to be treated with the same care and attention as human loved ones, with cremated remains made available for scattering within 24 to 48 hours.
Dave Jennings, Bereavement Services Manager, says: “For a long time, our service was low key and under the radar. But more local people are now entrusting their much-loved animals to our care.
“People’s bond with their pets is so strong. They are loyal companions, dependent on their owners and the emotional attachment can run deep. There is a grieving process, the same as losing a relative – but the feeling of loss of a pet, who was constantly by your side, can be immense.”
Tracy Martin, Crematorium Technician, added: “Families can come and say their goodbyes in our private farewell room and spend as long as they like here, there is no rush.”
Owners are provided with a paw print and fur clipping where possible and a range of jewellery and keepsakes is available.
Tracy continued: “We aim to carry out the cremations the same day that we are asked. For pet owners of some cultures, this is particularly important. We always undertake individual cremations so you can be assured of your own pet’s cremated remains being returned. We listen to people’s wants and wishes and provide a bespoke service.”
After cremation, Dunham Lawn’s pet garden offers tranquil views of fields and woodland for those who wish to scatter ashes. There is also a memorial wall where people can commemorate their pet with a plaque, in the good company of other cherished animals.
The pet garden and the wider cemetery grounds are maintained by One Trafford – the partnership between Amey and Trafford Council – to ensure the site remains clean, tidy and respectfully cared for all year round.
Customer feedback underlines the quality of the service. Kimzy West said: “I highly recommend Dunham Lawn. Thank you to all the staff for providing such a caring and compassionate service. Our pet goat Ronnie was collected and cremated the same day. We chose a scatter tube and received a lovely print of his foot, a certificate, and a special card.”
Meanwhile, Steven Jacobs spoke of a beautiful and caring, good-value service run by lovely staff. Deborah Wright added: “Tracy is so kind and caring and goes the extra mile emotionally to make sure everything is peaceful and done with the utmost care. My gorgeous girl Lady could not have had a better sending off. Her doggie brothers got to say goodbye in the lovely Chapel of Rest. More than five stars are deserved. It made a very difficult time so much easier.”
Cllr Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “We’re very proud of our pet cremation service. We’re the first Council in the area to offer such a service and it shows how we care for and value every life in our borough, whether human or animal.
“We hope the reputation and usage of this facility continues to grow, attracting more pet owners who can really benefit from the comfort and compassion we offer, at difficult time when it matters the most.”
