Large Animal Cremation Options
Cremation and aftercare options for horses, livestock, and giant breed dogs.
When my friend's horse passed after 22 years together, she was blindsided by how complicated the aftercare process was. Regular pet crematories couldn't handle him. The options were confusing, and she had to make decisions while grieving. Here's the guide she wished existed.
What qualifies as a "large animal"?
For aftercare purposes, large animals include:
**Horses and ponies:** Any equine, regardless of size
**Livestock:** Cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, llamas, alpacas
**Giant breed dogs:** Great Danes, Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, Irish Wolfhounds (150+ lbs)
**Large exotic animals:** Large pigs (pot-bellied pigs over 150 lbs), large tortoises
Standard pet cremation facilities typically max out at 150-200 lbs. Anything larger requires specialized services.
Cremation options for large animals
Private cremation
**How it works:** Your animal is cremated individually in a large-animal crematory. You receive all the ashes back.
**Availability:** Limited. Not every area has equine cremation facilities. You may need to transport your animal or have them picked up for a significant distance.
**Cost:**
**Remains returned:** Yes, typically 15-40+ pounds of ash depending on size.
Communal cremation
**How it works:** Multiple large animals cremated together. No remains returned.
**Cost:** Significantly less—often $300-$800 for a horse
**Why choose this:** If cost is a concern or receiving ashes isn't important to you.
Partial cremation / Hooves and hair
Some facilities offer:
This is more affordable than full cremation while still providing something tangible.
Alternatives to cremation
For large animals, cremation isn't always the default choice due to cost and logistics. Other options:
Burial on your property
**Pros:** Often the most affordable option; animal stays on familiar ground
**Cons:** Not legal everywhere; requires equipment for digging
**Considerations:**
Rendering
**What it is:** The body is processed and recycled into agricultural products (not for human consumption).
**How it's perceived:** This is a practical choice, especially for livestock. It's how most farm animals are handled. For beloved pets like horses, it can feel impersonal, but it's a legitimate option.
**Cost:** Often free or very low cost ($50-$200)
Natural burial / Composting
**What it is:** Newer option where the body is naturally composted. Legal in some states.
**For horses:** Some equine facilities offer this specifically.
**Cost:** $500-$2,000
Donation to veterinary schools
**What it is:** The body is used for veterinary education.
**Emotional consideration:** Some people find comfort in their animal helping train future veterinarians.
**Cost:** Usually free; may cover transport
The logistics challenge
Large animal aftercare involves significant logistics:
**Transportation:**
**Equipment:**
**Timing:**
Giant breed dogs: The in-between
Dogs over 150 lbs present a unique challenge:
**Great Danes, Mastiffs, etc.:**
Questions to ask large animal cremation services
Emotional considerations
Losing a large animal—especially a horse you've ridden for years or a Great Dane who was your constant companion—is profound. Don't let the logistics overwhelm the grief.