If you are like most pet owners, you've come to see your pet as a best friend or even part of the family. He has been there by your side through the good times and bad, and never held a grudge when you scolded him for doing something wrong. Through the years, your pet has offered you unconditional love, and that's why it's important to provide him with the proper memorial when he passes on. If you choose to cremate your dog, cat, bird or other animal, pet urns are a wonderful way to remember your beloved friend. Urns come in an enormous array of shapes, sizes, and colors. But before you go out and purchase one, here are 5 things to consider before purchasing a pet urn.

1. What is your budget? Pet urn prices are just as diverse ad their selection. They can range from under one hundred dollars to over a three hundred. It goes without saying that the more ornate and personalized you want your urn to be, the more expensive it will get.

2. What will the pet urn be used for? If you will be burying the urn, a nice yet simple container will suffice. If you plan to display the urn, you may opt for a more ornate and personal design.

3. What type of urn should you buy? It all comes down to your personal preference and budget. There are urns for all types of tastes and personalities: standard vase-type urns, life-size figurine urns that look just like your pet, simple box type urns, photo urns, hollow rock-like urns that can be placed outdoors, and even burial markers with built-in urns that can be placed in your home garden.

4. How will you personalize your pet urn? There are a number of options from which you can choose to personalize the urn, but it ultimately depends on the type of urn you select. Most urns can be purchased with an etched brass plate that can be engraved with your pet's name and a quote. Other urns have special sides which allow you to insert pictures. Some urns can be laser engraved depending on the urns material.

5. While it may be convenient to purchase a pet urn from your veterinary clinic, be aware that there are fees added into the purchase price that include transportation of the ashes and markup costs. It may be a better idea to purchase the urn directly from the pet crematory.

Selecting a cremation pet urn can be a difficult and personal experience, but it is a wonderful way to ensure the loving memory of your pet is preserved for years to come.