Hartsdale Pet Cemetery & Crematory Becomes First In New York State To Pass Pet Accreditation Program

The Hartsdale Pet Cemetery & Crematory has become the first and only pet facility in New York to pass the International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories (IAOPCC) accreditation program.

Hartsdale Pet Cemetery Vice President Edward Martin III and Chris Cooper, Hartsdale's crematory marketing manager, received the accreditation award at the IAOPCC's annual conference in Nashville, TN.  Founded in 1971, the IAOPCC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing the standards, ethics and professionalism of pet cemeteries and crematories worldwide.

"It took the IAOPCC five years of study and research before these accreditation standards, processes, and program of inspections were rolled out across the United States, Canada, and worldwide to its members," Martin said.  "It took us several months examining our own systems, processes, and procedures to be sure every aspect of our operation met the IAOPCC's standards.

"Over the years, we have remained steadfast in adhering to our responsibility to set a high standard in the industry.  Accreditation raises the standard and maintains integrity in the pet aftercare industry which instills confidence to those who use our services.  This accreditation validates our efforts just was it was validated in 1991.  That was when New York State passed legislation to regulate pet cemeteries, crematories and veterinarians.  Legislators consulted with us and used Hartsdale's procedures as a model while drafting those laws."

Family owned and operated for over 40 years, the Hartsdale Pet Cemetery is America's first pet grounds established in 1896.  It is the only pet cemetery listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is ranked as the best pet cemetery in the world.  It is a certified National Wildlife Habitat.  Hartsdale's War Dog Memorial is a landmark in Westchester County and is included in the Westchester County Tourism's website.  For additional information go to www.petcem.com.