Cremations FAQs
Here are the questions we get asked the most about AWL Cremations.
Why use AWL?
When it's time to say goodbye to your beloved pet, we guarantee you'll receive a compassionate and swift service based here in SA.
And you'll bring hope to thousands of vulnerable animals in the future.
AWL is a not-for-profit organisation giving other cats and dogs the chance to be adopted and adored just like your pet.
100% of proceeds fund AWL's work bringing hope to thousands of vulnerable cats and dogs each year.
Will it be my pet's ashes coming back to me?
Yes.With more than 40 years' experience, AWL understands the importance of responsible, transparent business practices.
Our single chamber cremation units are unique in South Australia. They are suitable for animals of all sizes, including horses.
AWL's systems identify your pet and track each step of their journey with us. This guarantees that only your pet's ashes will come home to you.
What does your IAOPCC accreditation mean?
AWL is the only crematorium in South Australia accredited by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematoriums.
Our accreditation guarantees that AWL's standards and processes meet and exceed international standards of care.
You can trust that we'll treat your pet with the dignity, care and respect that they deserve.
My pet has passed away at home, can AWL collect from my house, or can I bring my pet direct to one of your locations?
AWL can collect from most Adelaide metropolitan suburbs, 7 days a week between 8.30am – 4.30pm. Collection fees do apply.
When your beloved pet is ready to go back home, we can also return them back to your home Monday to Friday between 8.30am – 4.30pm.
Alternatively, we are available by appointment to assist you at either of the following AWL locations during our opening hours:
AWL 1-19 Cormack Road, Wingfield Tuesday to Friday 10am – 3pm
Saturday 10am – 3pm
AWL Gate 2, 4 Hewittson Road, Edinburgh North Monday to Friday 10am – 3pm
Making an appointment allows us to dedicate a team member to assist you and your pet once you arrive at our facility.
I’ve left my pet with my vet, what happens now?
If your pet is with an AWL partnering vet, your pet’s details will be logged onto our tracking and control system which allows our team to collect and transport your pet to AWL. We will then contact you via phone to discuss after care options.
If your pet is in the care of a non-partnered vet, but your preference is to use AWL services, you can call us on 8256 3110 and we will arrange collection. Please inform your vet know that the AWL Cremation and Aftercare team are collecting your pet.
Do you offer payment plans?
We understand that payment options help to provide flexibility when making choices to honour your beloved pet. In addition to VetPay and Zippay, AWL also offers a 21-day payment plan. For more details please ask our Cremation and Aftercare team when making your booking.
I want to see my pet again before cremation, can that happen?
Our dedicated team are highly experienced with preparing pets for viewings prior to cremation. We are here to support you through a 30-minute Final Goodbye or a 1-hour Private Viewing Service, located at our Cremation and Aftercare facility in Edinburgh North.
Fees apply for this service. Speak with our team to discuss which option may be best for you and your family.
Does AWL provide euthanasia services?
Unfortunately we are unable to assist with veterinary or end of life services, we recommend you consult with your own vet, one of Adelaide’s 24/7 emergency clinics or mobile vet services.
Can my pet’s favourite toy or blanket be cremated with them?
We can include items that are made from natural materials ie: cotton/woollen bedding, woollen jackets, their favourite collar, letters, flowers and food.
Unfortunately, we are unable to cremate any synthetic or plastic materials.
How long will it be until I receive my pets’ ashes back?
We aim to have you beloved pet returned to you within 5-7 business days but we can provide more information when you make the booking. Some of our memorial items and keepsakes can take a 3 – 6 weeks.
If my pet is communally cremated, can I still have a little bit of ash?
Unfortunately we are unable to release ashes from a communal cremation however we can offer other keepsakes and memorial items for you to keep. Alternatively, a private cremation will allow ashes to be returned.
What happens to surgical metals during the cremation process?
Most metals will remain after cremation and are removed while placing your pet in their forever urn. If you would like to have surgical metal returned with your pet’s ashes, please let us know at the time of the booking.
