COVID-19 UPDATE: August 2020
Dear Friends of the Peaceable Kingdom in Hartsdale,
At Hartsdale Pet Cemetery we are dedicated to serving the needs of the families who have entrusted the care of their loved ones to us, as well the greater New York community. First and foremost on our minds is the health and safety of our neighbors and friends. During this uncertain time, nothing is more important than all of us doing what we can to help slow the spread of coronavirus. With that in mind, here are some guidelines to how we have modified our services:
CEMETERY OFFICE – Cemetery operations and offices will continue to function as an essential service to the community. However, to lessen direct contact between individuals, our office, restroom and viewing room remain closed to the public due to the risk that such a small space creates for everybody. We encourage you to contact us by email or phone as an alternative.
BURIALS – For those who choose to attend the burial of their pet we have two modifications: (1) all viewings are being conducted outdoors; and (2) masks are required.
VISITING – Our gates are open to visitors during our normal hours which are posted in the CONTACT page of our website. We remind you that Hartsdale is an active cemetery, please be respectful of ongoing cemetery services and operations. Please also maintain social distancing at all times and be mindful of those around you.
PLOT-HOLDER INQUIRIES & BILL PAYING – All plot-holder inquiries and bills can be paid on our website, by mail or by calling us.
MONUMENT ORDERS – Please contact Brian Martin at (914) 240-6222 or brian@petcem.com.
ANNUAL EVENTS – Hartsdale has cancelled all of our annual events until further notice including the War Dog Memorial Celebration (June), Pet Memorial Day / Blessing of the Pets Ceremony (September) and our Tree Lighting Ceremony (December). We are monitoring the situation closely to determine when they may resume.
We are closely following the safety and preventative protocols offered by the CDC and local public health officials. You may see our workers wearing PPE, this is a precaution intended to keep everyone safe.
We want to extend a special thank you to all of our essential workers who keep the Cemetery going. Their service allows us to carry out our founding purpose for families in need during this critical time, and for that we are ever grateful!
We recognize the role Hartsdale plays in so many lives, not just as a place of remembrance, but one of solace in an ever-uncertain world. Therefore, we are dedicated to stay open and accessible during this time so that you may continue to find peace in our landscape – as generations before us have.
We hope that Hartsdale may provide a respite for you and your family during these challenging times.
Stay safe and healthy.
Edward C. Martin, Jr.
President