How to Transport Your Deceased Pet

My dog passed at home on a Saturday evening. The cremation service couldn't pick him up until Monday. I had no idea how to move him, how to keep him safe, or what was even appropriate. Nobody prepares you for this part.

If you're facing this now, here's what you need to know.

Immediately after passing

First, take a breath. There's no emergency. Your pet can remain where they are for a little while as you gather yourself.

Within 1-2 hours after passing, your pet's body will begin to stiffen (rigor mortis). If you need to move them to a different position or location, it's easier to do so before this happens. After 24-48 hours, the stiffness will naturally release.

Preparing your pet for transport

**Gather supplies:**

A blanket, towel, or sheet (preferably one you don't need back)

A waterproof layer (trash bag, plastic sheet, or puppy pads)

A box, carrier, or container appropriate for their size

Gloves if you prefer

**Why the waterproof layer matters:** After death, the body may release fluids. This is completely normal but can be distressing if you're not prepared. Place the waterproof layer down first, then the blanket on top.

How to move a small pet (under 20 lbs)

Small pets like cats, small dogs, rabbits, or birds can usually be:

Gently placed on a towel or blanket

Wrapped loosely

Placed in a pet carrier, cardboard box, or small container

Carried by one person

If they passed in a favorite bed or blanket, you can transport them in that.

How to move a medium pet (20-60 lbs)

For medium-sized dogs:

Slide a blanket or towel underneath them (roll them gently onto their side, tuck the blanket under, roll back)

Use the blanket as a sling—two people can carry by holding the corners

Alternatively, use a rigid surface like a board, large tray, or even a piece of cardboard

A large plastic storage bin can work as a transport container

How to move a large pet (over 60 lbs)

Large and giant breed dogs present a real challenge:

You'll likely need two people minimum

Use a sturdy blanket, tarp, or even a flat board as a stretcher

Slide rather than lift when possible

Consider asking a neighbor, friend, or family member for help

Some cremation services offer home pickup specifically because of this difficulty

**If you physically cannot move your pet:** Call the cremation service or your vet. Many offer pickup services, and they're experienced in handling this with dignity.

Transporting by car

If you're driving your pet to a vet or cremation facility:

Place them in the back seat or cargo area, not the front seat

Use waterproof protection under the blanket

Secure the carrier or container so it doesn't shift during driving

Bring a towel or blanket for the facility (some provide their own)

It's okay to have someone else drive so you can sit with your pet

What about temperature?

If transport will be delayed more than a few hours:

Keep your pet in the coolest room of your home

Air conditioning helps significantly

Avoid direct sunlight

In winter, a garage or enclosed porch may work

Do not place your pet in a freezer—this can complicate cremation

If you need to wait more than 24 hours, ask the cremation service or vet about temporary storage options.

Emotional considerations

This task is physically and emotionally difficult. Some things that might help:

You don't have to do this alone—ask someone for help

It's okay to talk to your pet while you do this

Take breaks if you need to

There's no 'right' way to feel—numbness, tears, or calm focus are all normal

This is an act of love, even though it's hard

If your pet passed at the vet

If your pet passed or was euthanized at the veterinary clinic, you usually have options:

The vet can arrange cremation directly (often easiest)

You can take your pet home and arrange cremation yourself

You can take your pet home for a private burial

Ask what your options are before leaving—it's okay to take a moment to decide.

Your next steps

Gather supplies: blanket, waterproof layer, container

Move your pet within 1-2 hours if positioning matters to you

Use the blanket-as-sling method for pets over 20 lbs

Ask for help if your pet is large—there's no shame in this

Keep your pet cool if transport is delayed

Call a cremation service for pickup if transport isn't possible

Be gentle with yourself—this is one of the hardest parts

If you're facing this now, here's what you need to know.

Immediately after passing

First, take a breath. There's no emergency. Your pet can remain where they are for a little while as you gather yourself.

Preparing your pet for transport

**Gather supplies:**

A blanket, towel, or sheet (preferably one you don't need back)

A waterproof layer (trash bag, plastic sheet, or puppy pads)

A box, carrier, or container appropriate for their size

Gloves if you prefer

How to move a small pet (under 20 lbs)

Small pets like cats, small dogs, rabbits, or birds can usually be:

Gently placed on a towel or blanket

Wrapped loosely

Placed in a pet carrier, cardboard box, or small container

Carried by one person

If they passed in a favorite bed or blanket, you can transport them in that.

How to move a medium pet (20-60 lbs)

For medium-sized dogs:

Slide a blanket or towel underneath them (roll them gently onto their side, tuck the blanket under, roll back)

Use the blanket as a sling—two people can carry by holding the corners

Alternatively, use a rigid surface like a board, large tray, or even a piece of cardboard

A large plastic storage bin can work as a transport container

How to move a large pet (over 60 lbs)

Large and giant breed dogs present a real challenge:

You'll likely need two people minimum

Use a sturdy blanket, tarp, or even a flat board as a stretcher

Slide rather than lift when possible

Consider asking a neighbor, friend, or family member for help

Some cremation services offer home pickup specifically because of this difficulty

**If you physically cannot move your pet:** Call the cremation service or your vet. Many offer pickup services, and they're experienced in handling this with dignity.

Transporting by car

If you're driving your pet to a vet or cremation facility:

Place them in the back seat or cargo area, not the front seat

Use waterproof protection under the blanket

Secure the carrier or container so it doesn't shift during driving

Bring a towel or blanket for the facility (some provide their own)

It's okay to have someone else drive so you can sit with your pet

What about temperature?

If transport will be delayed more than a few hours:

Keep your pet in the coolest room of your home

Air conditioning helps significantly

Avoid direct sunlight

In winter, a garage or enclosed porch may work

Do not place your pet in a freezer—this can complicate cremation

If you need to wait more than 24 hours, ask the cremation service or vet about temporary storage options.

Emotional considerations

This task is physically and emotionally difficult. Some things that might help:

You don't have to do this alone—ask someone for help

It's okay to talk to your pet while you do this

Take breaks if you need to

There's no 'right' way to feel—numbness, tears, or calm focus are all normal

This is an act of love, even though it's hard

If your pet passed at the vet

If your pet passed or was euthanized at the veterinary clinic, you usually have options:

The vet can arrange cremation directly (often easiest)

You can take your pet home and arrange cremation yourself

You can take your pet home for a private burial

Ask what your options are before leaving—it's okay to take a moment to decide.

Your next steps

Gather supplies: blanket, waterproof layer, container

Move your pet within 1-2 hours if positioning matters to you

Use the blanket-as-sling method for pets over 20 lbs

Ask for help if your pet is large—there's no shame in this

Keep your pet cool if transport is delayed

Call a cremation service for pickup if transport isn't possible

Be gentle with yourself—this is one of the hardest parts

Immediately after passing

Preparing your pet for transport

How to move a small pet (under 20 lbs)

How to move a medium pet (20-60 lbs)

How to move a large pet (over 60 lbs)

Transporting by car

What about temperature?

Emotional considerations

If your pet passed at the vet

Your next steps

Related Articles

What to Do When Your Pet Passes Away

Storing Pet Remains Before Cremation

Pet Cremation Timeline: What to Expect

Ready to Find a Provider?

How to Transport Your Deceased Pet

Immediately after passing

Preparing your pet for transport

How to move a small pet (under 20 lbs)

How to move a medium pet (20-60 lbs)

How to move a large pet (over 60 lbs)

Transporting by car

What about temperature?

Emotional considerations

If your pet passed at the vet

Your next steps

Related Articles

What to Do When Your Pet Passes Away

Storing Pet Remains Before Cremation

Pet Cremation Timeline: What to Expect

Ready to Find a Provider?