A well-established pet crematory in northern Colorado, Precious Memories Pet Cemetery & Crematory, is currently facing legal action over allegations of deceitful disposal of pets in landfills and mass graves contrary to the wishes of pet owners. The seven-page lawsuit, recently filed in Larimer County and obtained by CBS News Colorado, asserts that the company has caused reputational and financial harm to at least two veterinary offices in northern Colorado.
According to Samantha Jo Staggs, the director of the crematory, the lawsuit is baseless and has taken a toll on her company’s reputation. Staggs emphasized the emotional significance of pets to their owners, stating that some individuals mourn more for their pets than for their own family members.
Staggs reported receiving death threats from concerned customers who believe the accusations made in the lawsuit, underscoring the severity of the impact on her business. Edwards Veterinary Care and Western Skies Animal Rehabilitation are two veterinary offices mentioned in the lawsuit as having suffered damages allegedly caused by Precious Memories Pet Cemetery & Crematory.
The legal document accuses Staggs’ company of disposing of pets in landfills and mass graves against client wishes. Additionally, it claims that the company has sent clients clay memorials with paw and hoof prints from animals other than those owned by the clients.
When questioned by CBS News Colorado’s Dillon Thomas, Staggs vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that she has never misled clients or mishandled pet remains without their knowledge. Staggs explained that while it is common practice to dispose of some pet remains in landfills, this is only done with prior approval and understanding from clients.
Staggs clarified that her company follows a detailed process for each pet, including proper documentation and information stickers that follow the remains throughout the cremation process. She admitted that if someone received the wrong clay memorial or ashes, it was a mistake, but there was no malicious intent.
CBS News Colorado reached out to the vet clinics involved in the lawsuit for interviews, but both offices deferred comment to their lawyer, who stated that the lawsuit is based on factual information. The suing parties are seeking compensation for damages to their reputation and financial losses.
Despite the legal challenges, Staggs expressed her willingness to speak with concerned pet owners and assured them that she has never intentionally misled anyone during the grieving process.
The ongoing lawsuit raises questions about the practices of Precious Memories Pet Cemetery & Crematory, highlighting the potential impact on both the company and the affected veterinary offices.
