Why I stopped recommending pet crematoriums and pet transport services
Dr. Geoff Carullo, DVM, FPCCP, DPCVSCA
- GPH Vet Business
- 3 min read
The Ahjay Paws controversy reminded me of a business decision I made in 2021.
Let me share something about the veterinary industry.
Some veterinary clinics receive commissions from pet crematoriums for client referrals.
And yes, Greenwoods Pet Hospital used to receive commissions, too.
But during the early 2020s, I noticed something that made me reconsider the arrangement.
Some staff became increasingly enthusiastic whenever commissions were involved.
It made me wonder whether financial incentives could eventually influence our professional recommendations.
I was also becoming uncomfortable with the idea of being beholden to businesses whose operations I could not fully supervise.
We previously worked with pet transportation businesses.
Greenwoods Pet Hospital prepared medical records, collected blood samples, and processed pet transportation documents.
We were already doing a substantial portion of the work, yet the actual transportation and remaining arrangements were handled by another business.
We were involved in the process, but we did not control the entire system.
And if something went wrong, our hospital’s reputation could still be affected.
Beginning in 2021, I stopped favoring or recommending particular crematoriums and discontinued our third-party pet transportation arrangements.
I allowed clients to choose their own service providers.
Not because I suspected anyone of wrongdoing, but because of a simple business principle:
“If I cannot control or adequately verify the system, I would rather not recommend it.”
The discovery of 29 animal remains in Bulacan and the allegations involving Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium have raised serious concerns about the pet aftercare industry.
The circumstances and responsibility behind the incident remain subject to investigation.
Let me clarify my position.
I am not accusing crematorium operators, pet transportation businesses, or veterinary clinics receiving commissions of wrongdoing.
Receiving referral commissions does not automatically constitute unethical or illegal conduct.
My experience is entirely separate from the allegations involving Ahjay Paws.
However, the controversy highlights the risks of endorsing services beyond our direct supervision.
After nearly two decades of operating Greenwoods Pet Hospital, I have learned that protecting professional independence sometimes means walking away from additional income.
Other clinics may have reliable partnerships with third-party providers, and I respect their decisions.
But I made mine in 2021.
Not every opportunity to earn money is an opportunity worth taking.
Because commissions come and go.
But a reputation built over decades can be damaged by a single recommendation.
Dr. Geoff Carullo is a Fellow and the current President of the Philippine College of Canine Practitioners.
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