Small pet crematory and memorial center

Pet owners paying directly, and veterinary clinics, shelters and groomers that send you their clients' pets.

Fees per cremation, based on pet size and whether it is private or communal, plus urns, memorial products and fees from vet clinics you serve. Having your own equipment means you keep the cremation margin.

• Compassion and calm communication
• Operating equipment safely
• Business and regulatory know-how
• Building relationships with vets

• Air quality and environmental permits are often needed for cremation equipment, so check with your state and local agencies before buying anything
• Zoning, building and fire code rules for the site may limit where you can operate
• Some states regulate pet crematories or require operator training, so check your state's rules
• Get general liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• High upfront cost and ongoing fuel and maintenance costs, so test your numbers carefully before committing
• Strict tracking of every pet is essential to avoid mix-ups and protect your reputation

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $80,000 to $350,000, depending on your equipment, premises and fit-out. Monthly revenue is typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on volume. Fuel and maintenance are ongoing costs, so test your numbers carefully.

Check air quality and environmental permits with your state and local agencies before buying equipment. Also check zoning, building and fire code rules for the site, and whether your state regulates pet crematories or requires operator training.

Helpful skills include compassion and calm communication, operating equipment safely, business and regulatory know-how, and building relationships with vets. Strict tracking of every pet is essential. Time is typically at least around 30 hours a week.