To ensure your beloved companion is safe and viable for taxidermy, please keep them frozen after passing. Understandably, you may need time before taking this step, so feel free to keep them with you initially, using towels to gently catch any fluids released as muscles relax. To maintain viability, aim to freeze your pet within a few hours. Most clients use their home freezer, though some veterinary offices may also allow temporary use of their medical freezers. When you’re ready to wrap them, you can use their favorite sheets or blankets for comfort, with a sealed plastic layer outside to preserve and protect them.

If you’re local to Nevada, you can bring your pet directly to me in Henderson, either straight from the vet or after they’ve been frozen and wrapped. Most clients use a towel-lined box, carrier, or cooler for transport. For trips under 4 hours, larger pets usually don’t require extra insulation, but it’s a good idea to pack a few ice packs in case of unexpected delays.

Due to the intricate nature of accurately preserving and capturing your pet’s unique details, the pet preservation process may take between 6 to 12 months. Taxidermy creates a lasting tribute, capturing your pet in a single, still moment. However, it’s important to remember that there are certain limitations—for instance, even the finest custom glass eyes cannot replicate the full depth and expression of a living eye, especially for a beloved companion you’ve known for years. Please take all the time you need to consider if taxidermy is the right choice for you.