Clayton engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kevin Spurgeon, the owner of Dignity Pet Crematorium in Hampshire. They explore the emotional complexities surrounding pet loss and the often-overlooked realities of pet cremation services. Kevin shares the origins of his family-run business, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices and transparency in an industry that can sometimes mislead grieving pet owners. The discussion delves into the stark differences between individual and communal cremation services, the impact of corporate veterinary practices on pricing and choice, and the emotional support provided to pet owners during their time of grief.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Transparency in Pet Cremation Services: There is a significant lack of transparency in the pet cremation industry, with many pet owners unaware of the differences between individual and communal cremation practices.

Emotional Impact of Pet Loss: The grief associated with losing a pet can be profound, and many pet owners experience feelings of guilt and blame after making the decision to euthanize. 

Ethical Considerations in Pet Care: The discussion highlights the ethical implications of how pets are handled after death, including the conditions in which they are stored and cremated. 

Corporate Influence on Veterinary Practices: The corporate takeover of veterinary services has led to a lack of choice for pet owners regarding cremation options. 

BEST MOMENTS

"When my mum and dad started this, they did so completely askew from what they were doing for many years." - Kevin 

"It's about transparency as well. So telling everyone what is going on, giving them the information to make an informed decision." - Kevin 

"The veterinary industry has become corporately dominated. This causes a problem for consumers." - Clayton

"If you take that sort of £50 fee for any size of dog's ashes back individually, is that ethical to be charging £400?" - Kevin

HOST BIO

Clayton Payne is an industry veteran of three decades of working in the pet industry. Brought up working in his parents' pet store, Clayton has seen the industry evolve over five different decades and has been on the cutting edge of the industry since the nineties. Building pet businesses from scratch, establishing multi-national distribution chains and having worked in every aspect of the industry, Clayton has a rare insight into the Pet Industry that is rivalled by few. 

Clayton has been the spearhead of many of the industry's changes and has introduced numerous new concepts to market with a trail of success behind him. He has worked in numerous countries within the pet industry, speaks four different languages and has established both import and export relationships on all continents (excluding Antarctica).

As well as being COO of one of the UKs fastest growing insect technology companies, Clayton is a Pet industry consultant who has consulted for many household brands and delivers sales training to pet trade professionals.
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