Pure Souls Journal
Your Pet Has Passed Away. What Happens Next?
A calm, step-by-step guide for Townsville families, from the first hours to saying goodbye.
In short
- Take a moment. You do not need to rush.
- Keep your pet somewhere cool, especially in the Townsville heat.
- Call us any time, 24/7. We can collect your pet, or you can bring them to us.
“In the first hours, you do not need to have all the answers.”
When your pet has passed away, the world can feel like it has stopped. Whether it happened peacefully at home, suddenly, or at the vet, it is natural to feel shocked and unsure of what to do next.
This gentle guide walks you through the first hours and the choices ahead, one step at a time. And if you would rather talk to someone, our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The First Hours, Step by Step
There is no need to rush. These simple steps will help you care for your pet, and yourself.
01
Take a moment
Sit with your pet if you wish. Talk to them, stroke their fur, and let yourself feel whatever comes.
02
Lay them gently
Place your pet on a towel or blanket in a comfortable, natural position, as if they are sleeping.
03
Keep them cool
In our warm climate, move your pet to the coolest room in the house, away from direct sun.
04
Let family know
Give those who loved them a chance to say goodbye, including children, and other pets if you wish.
05
Call us, 24/7
Contact Pure Souls any time. We will gently explain your options and arrange the next steps with you.
06
Choose their farewell
Decide on aftercare, a private viewing and any keepsakes. There is no pressure to decide everything at once.
Your Aftercare Options
When you are ready, these are the ways we can care for your pet and help you honour them.
Aquacremation
A gentle, water-based alternative to flame cremation, with your pet’s ashes lovingly returned to you.
Home collection
Our team can collect your pet from your home with care and dignity. Home collection is $120.
Bring your pet to us
You are welcome to bring your pet to our Garbutt facility at 9/25 Greg Jabs Drive, by appointment.
Private viewing
Say goodbye in The Angel Area, our calm, private viewing room, from $150.
Urns and keepsakes
Choose an urn, paw print or nose print keepsake to keep their memory close.
Tree planting tribute
Honour your pet with a living memorial through our tree planting tribute.
Why Families Choose Aquacremation
Aquacremation, also known as water cremation, uses warm water and a gentle alkaline solution instead of flame. For many families, it simply feels like a softer way to say goodbye.
- A gentle, flame-free process
- A smaller environmental footprint than flame cremation
- Your pet’s ashes returned to you with care
Learn more about aquacremation in Townsville and how the process works.
Looking After Yourself
Grief after losing a pet is real, and it can run deep. Be gentle with yourself in the days and weeks ahead.
- Allow yourself to feel sad, without rushing
- Keep a small routine, like a short walk each day
- Talk to friends who understood your bond
- Create a small memorial space at home
If your grief feels overwhelming, speaking with your GP or a counsellor can help.
Gentle Answers to Common Questions
What should I do if my pet has passed away at night?
Keep your pet somewhere cool and comfortable, and call us. We are available 24/7 and will talk you through the next steps.
How long can my pet stay at home?
In Townsville’s warm climate, it is best to contact us within a few hours if you can. Keeping your pet in the coolest room of the house will help in the meantime.
Can you collect my pet from home?
Yes. Our home collection service is $120, and our team will care for your pet gently and with dignity. You are also welcome to bring your pet to us.
My pet passed away at the vet. What happens now?
Let your vet know you would like Pure Souls to care for your pet. We can arrange for your pet to come into our care from the clinic.
Can I still say goodbye before aquacremation?
Yes. You can book a private viewing in The Angel Area before your pet’s aquacremation, for 30 or 45 minutes.
What should I tell my children?
Use simple, honest words, and let them be part of the goodbye in a way that suits their age. Our guide on helping children say goodbye may help.
What should I do if my pet has passed away at night?
Keep your pet somewhere cool and comfortable, and call us. We are available 24/7 and will talk you through the next steps.
How long can my pet stay at home?
In Townsville’s warm climate, it is best to contact us within a few hours if you can. Keeping your pet in the coolest room of the house will help in the meantime.
Can you collect my pet from home?
Yes. Our home collection service is $120, and our team will care for your pet gently and with dignity. You are also welcome to bring your pet to us.
My pet passed away at the vet. What happens now?
Let your vet know you would like Pure Souls to care for your pet. We can arrange for your pet to come into our care from the clinic.
Can I still say goodbye before aquacremation?
Yes. You can book a private viewing in The Angel Area before your pet’s aquacremation, for 30 or 45 minutes.
What should I tell my children?
Use simple, honest words, and let them be part of the goodbye in a way that suits their age. Our guide on helping children say goodbye may help.
We Are Here, Day or Night
Whenever you are ready, call us or send us a message. We will gently guide you through every step, at your pace.
