Understanding the Pet Cremation and Aftercare Industry
The pet funeral services market reached an estimated $2.18 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a 10% CAGR through 2030, driven by rising pet ownership and the humanization of companion animals. Cremation accounts for the majority of pet aftercare services, with roughly 90% of pet owners who choose formal disposition selecting cremation over burial.
Industry Structure
According to IBISWorld, approximately 360 dedicated pet cremation businesses operate in the United States. However, the total number of providers offering pet cremation and aftercare services — including veterinary clinics with in-house capabilities, multi-service funeral homes, and mobile operators — is significantly larger.
- Independent providers
- Account for 49% of the market. Typically serve a local or regional area with personalized service.
- Regional chains
- Represent 31% of the market. Companies like Gateway Services (150+ locations) and Trusted Journey consolidate operations across multiple states.
- Veterinary-linked operators
- Make up 20% of the market. Operate cremation services as an extension of veterinary practice, often through partnerships with independent providers.
Service Types and Methods
Pet aftercare providers typically offer a range of services:
| Service | Description | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Private cremation | Individual cremation with ashes returned | $150–$400 |
| Communal cremation | Multiple pets cremated together; ashes not returned | $30–$100 |
| Aquamation | Water-based alkaline hydrolysis; marketed as eco-friendly | $200–$500 |
| Home pickup | Transport from home or veterinary clinic | $25–$75 |
Emerging Trend: Aquamation
Alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation) is gaining traction as an alternative to traditional flame cremation. Providers like Resting Waters in Seattle position the method as using 90% less energy than flame cremation. While still a small fraction of the market, regulatory approval has expanded to over 20 U.S. states, and consumer interest in eco-friendly options continues to grow.
Franchise and Consolidation
The pet aftercare space is experiencing consolidation. Gateway Services, backed by Imperial Capital, has grown to over 150 locations across North America, servicing more than 17,000 veterinary clinics. Pet Passages has expanded through franchising, with 16+ locations and continued growth. These consolidation trends create both partnership opportunities for veterinary clinics and competitive dynamics for independent operators considering market entry.