Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is to build a new pet crematorium in the grounds of Bradwell Crematorium. The Loved and Loyal Pet Crematorium will provide a service for animals ranging from small birds to large dogs.
The facility will operate from a detached, single-storey building and will be run by the council when it opens. It will offer an appointment-only service and include a private farewell room.
The council expects the pet crematorium to open by the end of the year. Construction work will not affect the normal operation of Bradwell Crematorium, the authority said.
Why the council is opening the service
Council leader Jonathan Gullis said: "As a dog owner myself, I know just how quickly our pets become part of the family, and how difficult it can be when the time comes to say goodbye. We want local people to have the choice of a caring, dignified and affordable way to say goodbye to a much-loved pet, close to home."
Councillor Ben Simpson, cabinet member for waste, recycling and green spaces, added: "Losing one can be incredibly difficult, so we want residents to have somewhere local where they know their pet will be treated with care, dignity and respect."
Regulatory requirements
A regulatory licence from Defra will be needed before the pet crematorium can begin operating.
