Zoey Robinson-Budreski is no stranger to the grief of pet owners. As the operator of two crematory businesses specializing in both human and pet services, she understands the weight of loss. However, the emotional turmoil has escalated following alarming reports of deceased pets found unceremoniously disposed of near Catonsville.
Last month, it was revealed that over 60 grieving pet owners were given what they believed to be their pets’ cremated remains from Loving Care Pet Cremations, a business now under investigation by the Baltimore County Police for potential “theft by deception.” Many of these families, including Nikki Pickens, are now left to grapple with confusion and betrayal as they discover that the urns they received sometimes contained sand, debris, or even concrete instead of their cherished pets’ ashes.
Robinson-Budreski, who has been assisting distraught pet owners in identifying their animals and ensuring they receive proper cremation services, described the situation’s heart-wrenching nature. “I can’t help all these people who don’t know where their pets are,” she said, noting that some materials the families have been given don’t correspond to animal remains at all.
The investigation into Loving Care’s practices has revealed shocking insights. For instance, eight animals were found improperly discarded on the side of the road, while another 38 were discovered in a decomposing state within a hearse on the owner’s property. This has led Robinson-Budreski to prepare for a vigil at her facility, Charm City Pet Crematory, to honor the mistaken remains of the dozens of pets involved. Additionally, she is engaged in providing support to affected families through a Facebook community initiated by Pickens, which serves as a platform for shared experiences and a quest for justice.
Many of the stories emerging from this situation raise critical questions. For example, how could it be possible for a cremation service to return remains within such a short period—often less than 24 hours? Robinson-Budreski explains that legitimate cremation processes take significantly longer, requiring not only the cremation itself at high temperatures but also time for proper aftercare, including cooling and memorial preparations. The standard timeframe for these procedures is typically between 48 and 72 hours.
As the investigation unfolds, the shared experiences of the pet owners have forged connections and inspired action. The planned vigil is not just a remembrance but also a call for change. Robinson-Budreski intends to advocate for better legislative oversight in the pet cremation industry, which currently lacks regulation governing the handling and disposal of pet remains. She emphasizes the need for protective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, stating, “Things have got to change.”
As the community comes together for mutual support, there is a sense of hope that through collective action and legislative reform, the traumatic experiences faced by these families will lead to a more transparent and compassionate approach to pet memorial services. The dedication to grieving families and beloved pets displayed by Robinson-Budreski and the community illustrates the potential for healing and change amidst sorrow.