# Decide what you need first

Lesson 1 of [Compare pet crematory quotes in writing](https://petcremation.fyi/academy/compare-pet-crematory-quotes.md), 12 minutes.

Decide what you need before you contact any provider. A clear list stops a low headline fee from steering your choice.

## Four questions

1. Do I want the ashes back? If yes, you need private cremation, or partitioned cremation if the provider returns ashes from it. If no, communal cremation may fit.
2. Do I want to attend or watch? Not every provider offers this. Some charge for it.
3. Who will bring my pet? You can bring your pet yourself, ask your vet to arrange it, or ask a provider to collect from your home.
4. Is there a size to plan for? A horse, a pony or a very large dog may need a provider that says so in writing.

## Write the answers down

Short answers are fine. For example: private cremation, ashes back, no need to attend, collection from home, a dog under 10 kg. You will give the same list to every provider. Then every provider prices the same job.

## Take your time

You can take a day. If you are unsure how long it is safe to wait, ask your vet. If a provider rushes you, you can call another one.

## Sources

- PetCremation, Choosing a Pet Crematorium: The Starter Checklist
- PetCremation guide, How to compare pet crematories

Also on the [web page](https://petcremation.fyi/academy/compare-pet-crematory-quotes/decide-what-you-need).