I called Gary Smith with Benson Brook Pet Cremations the morning I was to take my cat Ivan to the vet. Gary seemed like a good guy on the phone and though it was to be an hour and ten minute drive from Portland, I decided to take Ivan there when it was over. In the first place it was just a really good drive and maybe I needed that to clear my head. In the second place, Benson Brook seems to be at the end of a peaceful road in Parsonsfield, Maine. It seemed appropriate. Gary runs the business in what looks like his garage, which gives kind of a hoakie first impression. That impression quickly goes away when you meet him. He demonstrates a genuine sympathy for people and their lost pets. He has a nice lobby area and will gladly show you everything involved and answer any questions. At my request, Gary allowed me to place Ivan into the crematorium myself, which afforded me one last look at him, as if he was just taking a nap curled up against the bricks. Gary closed the door and started the process while I watched, and I can truly say I was there with my cat Ivan until the very end. The next morning I returned and Ivan's ashes were in a very nice ceder box Gary made himself. It was a nice touch on top of the many other nice touches. I am not looking forward to seeing Gary again or making the drive to Parsonsfield, but (at least), two more times, I will. It is kind of a long drive to Benson Brook, but I recommend you make it. The terrible sadness I feel has not abated even a little bit, but I have peace of mind that my cat Ivan's remains were treated with care and respect. I know, because I was there. read more

I took my favorite kitty, Sinbad, here a few years ago and ,unlike other places, you can be assured you will get your very same animal back. Gary gave me all the time that I needed to mourn and was very sympathetic when I cried horribly. He promised I would get my same animal back and he showed me his set up. He gave me a snippet of Sinbad's fur as a momento. I picked up my ashes the next day and Sinbad was in a nice box with a very nice bag. Gary really is very kind and he runs an ethical business. He is flexible and reliable. I will be bringing him my eldest kitty, Topaz, of 14yrs either today or tomorrow after he is put into his eternal sleep - and I KNOW I will be getting my very same animal back. Gary runs a very small operation and his customer service is flawless. He is very helpful during this difficult time and I will always return - no matter how far I move away. I would not trust my animals with anyone else. read more