Pet cremation is the most common legal option in Greece after the death of a companion animal. It combines sanitary safety, respect and — in the individual variant — the ability to keep ashes in a returned urn. This English guide explains everything: types of cremation, costs, process, certificates and frequently asked questions.
Note: For formal updates contact the relevant Greek authorities or your vet. Greek version: Αποτέφρωση Ζώων στην Ελλάδα.
What Is Pet Cremation
Cremation is the process of exposing the animal’s body to high temperatures (above 850°C) in a specialised incinerator, converting it into ashes (about 3-5% of original weight). In Greece, licensed facilities operate under sanitary specifications and animal-welfare law (Law 4830/2021 and Law 5056/2023).
Types of Cremation
1. Individual (Private) Cremation
- One animal per cycle.
- Ashes returned in an urn.
- Certificate of cremation issued.
- Allows international transport of ashes with written confirmation.
- Higher cost.
- Ideal if you want to keep ashes or scatter them.
2. Communal (Collective) Cremation
- Multiple animals together.
- Ashes not returned.
- More economical.
- Often used by veterinary clinics for collective handling.
Where Is Cremation Available in Greece
Attica
- Cats n Dogs (Koropi) — see pet cemetery near Athens.
Western Greece and Nationwide
- Pet Service Cremation (Patras) — licensed crematorium, serves cases across Greece via partner vets.
Other Regions
Through vet coordination with one of the licensed facilities above.
Full directory: /nekrotafia-zwon/.
How Much Does Pet Cremation Cost in Greece
Data Sources
- Kathimerini (2026): cremation or burial in Attica around €200.
- ERT (Thessaly 2025): burial at the specific Thessaly facility about €168 + burial cost.
Typical Price Ranges
| Service | Indicative Cost |
|---|---|
| Communal cremation | €80-150 |
| Individual cremation (with ash return) | €150-280 |
| Transport from home | €30-80 |
| Nationwide transport | €60-200 |
| Ash urn | €30-150 |
| Certificate | usually included |
| Total (typical) | €150-€400+ |
Always request a written quote.
Cremation Cost by Pet Size
For individual cremation, cost varies by animal size:
| Pet Size | Weight | Indicative Cost (Individual) |
|---|---|---|
| Cat | 3-7 kg | €120-200 |
| Toy / Small dog | 1-10 kg | €120-200 |
| Medium dog (Beagle, Cocker) | 10-25 kg | €180-250 |
| Large dog (Labrador, Boxer) | 25-40 kg | €220-300 |
| Giant breed (Great Dane, Saint Bernard) | 40+ kg | €280-450 |
Step-by-Step Process
1. Contact and Selection
- Call your vet or directly the facility.
- Confirm availability, timing and costs.
- Choose individual or communal.
2. Body Collection
- From home (some providers offer).
- From vet clinic (most common).
- Self-transport in special cases.
3. Cremation
- Individual: 1-3 hours per animal depending on size.
- The facility verifies identity at each stage for individual cremation.
4. Ash Return (Individual Only)
- In a chosen urn.
- With a certificate.
- With written declaration, can travel internationally.
5. ΕΜΖΣ Update
Your vet updates the National Pet Registry (ΕΜΖΣ) per Law 4830/2021 requirements.
Urn Options
Facilities offer various options:
- Basic plastic / cardboard urn — included.
- Wooden urn — €30-80.
- Metal / ceramic urn — €50-150.
- Personalised (name, photo) — €80-200.
- Biodegradable (for scattering) — €40-100.
- Cremation jewellery / pendants — €50-150.
- Memorial diamond (Algordanza, LifeGem) — €2000-15000.
The Certificate
A complete certificate includes:
- Pet name and microchip number.
- Breed, age (if known).
- Owner details.
- Date and type of cremation (individual/communal).
- Facility name, operating licence info.
- Stamp and signature.
Keep the certificate — needed for:
- International ash transport.
- Insurance closure.
- Confirmation of ΕΜΖΣ update.
Travelling Abroad with Ashes
Possible with the written certificate from a licensed Greek facility. Airlines and destination countries have their own rules — see: Travelling with pet ashes from Greece.
FAQ
Is pet cremation legal in Greece? Yes, in licensed facilities operating under sanitary specifications.
How long from pickup to ash return? Usually 5-10 business days for individual cremation, depending on distance and facility load.
Can I watch the cremation? Rare. Most facilities don’t allow attendance due to sanitary and safety reasons.
My pet is very large — extra cost? Yes, large breeds (40+ kg) incur additional charges. Confirm in advance.
Can I scatter ashes anywhere? Not in public spaces without permission. Allowed in private areas with consent. For sea or parks, check local rules.
Does dog cremation differ from cat cremation? Process is identical. Cost differs by size only.
See Also (English Cluster)
- Pet cemetery in Greece: complete guide
- Pet cemetery near Athens
- Pet died in Greece: guide for tourists
- Travelling with pet ashes from Greece
- Directory of facilities