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Has your pet just died? What to do now

Pets E. Ternal Cemetery
A river red gum at sunset over the paddocks of Pets E. Ternal Cemetery, Narre Warren North

Pet cemetery · Narre Warren North, Melbourne

A peaceful place to lay them to rest, and to come back to.

Pets E. Ternal is a family-run pet cemetery in Melbourne's south east. Terry and Karen Ryan care for your pet with gentle burial in quiet, beautiful grounds you can visit, or individual cremation with the ashes returned to you.

Has your pet just died?

Take a breath, there is no rush. Lay your pet on a towel in a cool room, out of the sun. Then call us, day or evening. We can collect from your home or your vet, usually the same day.

What to do in the first few hours

How we care for your pet

Two gentle choices. We'll help you find the right one.

A canopy and chairs set up for a family's farewell in the grounds
A soft shroud tied with ribbon and a rose
A family's hands resting on their pet during a farewell

On the day

Every goodbye is unhurried, and every detail is cared for

  • A soft shroud and a rose

    Your pet is wrapped gently, ready for you to say goodbye.

  • A canopy and chairs

    Shade and a place to sit for your family, whatever the weather.

  • A paw print to keep

    A small, lasting keepsake of the one you love.

  • Time with them

    No one hurries you. Say goodbye in your own way.

From the families

In their words

4.6 from 10 Google reviews
  • ★★★★★
    “It feels like Bonnie was in very good hands and in such a beautiful and peaceful place.”

    Elli, for Bonnie · Google review

  • ★★★★★
    “Terry and Karen were the perfect people to help send our family dog Coco off... I cannot recommend this place enough!”

    Kevin, for Coco · Google review

  • ★★★★★
    “...we did not want cremation; we wanted a peaceful burial and a special place we could visit often.”

    Ibrahim, for Yaman · Google review

Read every review
Terry and Karen Ryan walking through the cemetery grounds

Who you'll talk to

Terry and Karen Ryan

We are a husband and wife who look after these grounds ourselves. When you call, you talk to one of us. When you visit, we are here. We don't believe in scripts or sales pitches, only in looking after your pet the way we would look after our own.

About us and the grounds

Planning ahead

Reserve a plot, so the hardest day is a little easier

If your pet is getting older or unwell, you can choose and reserve their place now, while you have the time to visit and decide calmly. Families can also reserve a plot beside a pet already resting here.

How reserving a plot works
A path through the memorial garden with views to the hills
The fenced lane at sunset
A heart-shaped plaque with paw prints
The dam at sunset through the gum trees
Fresh flowers left on a grave

Questions families ask

Straight answers

My pet has just died at home. What do I do right now?

Take a breath. There is no rush. Gently lay your pet on a towel or blanket in a cool room, with a towel under the back end, and close their eyes if you can. Keep them out of the sun.

Then call Terry on 0418 548 147. We answer through the day and into the evening, and we can collect from your home or your vet, or you can bring your pet to us.

Can you collect my pet from home or from the vet?

Yes. We offer same-day collection from your home or your vet clinic, subject to availability on the day. If you would rather bring your pet to us yourself, you are very welcome.

Can I call you in the evening?

Yes. We answer the phone through the day and into the evening, seven days. You can also send us a message at any hour and we will reply as soon as we can.

Can we be there for the burial?

Yes, and most families are. Your pet is wrapped in a soft shroud with a rose, and the burial takes place under a canopy with chairs for your family. You can say goodbye in your own way and take your time.

Can we visit our pet's grave afterwards?

Yes. Families are welcome to visit the grounds during daylight hours. Many come back often to bring flowers and sit for a while.

Is there an ongoing fee for a burial plot?

Yes. Burial plots have an annual maintenance fee. It pays for the mowing, gardening and care that keep the grounds peaceful and beautiful for every family who visits. We explain it clearly, in writing, before anything is agreed.

Can I reserve a plot in advance?

Yes. Many families reserve a plot ahead of time, often for an older pet, so that when the day comes there are no decisions to make. You can also choose a plot beside a pet you have already laid to rest.

More questions and answers

Talk to us

We're here when you need us

Whether your pet has just passed, or you are quietly planning ahead, tell us a little and Terry or Karen will be in touch. There is no pressure and no obligation.

Best way to reach you

Or call Terry: 0418 548 147

Phone or email is enough. We only use your details to reply to you.

Call Terry0418 548 147Send a messageDay or night