Media News

January 2008

Local Pet Crematory Starting 6th Year

White Rose Pet Memorial Services of Brattleboro, Vermont, began its sixth year in January, 2008. The business provides complete aftercare services for pets, including cremations, memorial services, pet loss grief assistance, urns, caskets and memorial markers.

Proprietors Marilyn George and Steve Hellus have cared for deceased pets from neighboring New England states, as well as New York and Rhode Island. Over the past five years White Rose has cremated mice, ferrets, guinea pigs, cats, snakes, dogs, pigs, goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas and a miniature donkey. Susan Hamilton, of Dummerston, assists George and Hellus with client services.

The crematory’s mission statement, “All pets are treated with the respect and dignity they inherently deserve,” comes from the heart and a deep understanding of how important pets are to their families.

George and Hellus continue to participate in annual pet loss training seminars sponsored by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPC) and the Association of Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB), a compassionate organization dedicated to helping those who seek grief counseling through its direct chatroom talk and personal e-mail assistance.

Families who bring their pets directly to the facility are encouraged to be in attendance during the cremation process. All appointments are scheduled, assuring complete privacy and attention to one family at a time. White Rose’s tastefully and warmly decorated memorial room offers complete privacy for grieving pet families who wish to spend final moments alone with their beloved pets.

The name “White Rose” was chosen for the company name because the rose, for centuries, has symbolized a commitment to love and friendship. What better way is there to express the relationships between people and their beloved pets?

White Rose provides services directly to pet owners and through area veterinarians. Visits and inspections by both veterinary personnel and pet owners are encouraged. Pet owners should not be afraid to ask questions about how things are done and should feel comfortable in researching options available to them for the disposition of their pets.