Necropsy Services Group - Products & Services

Performing pet autopsies for veterinarians and owners since 2008

Performing pet autopsies for veterinarians, pet owners, and agencies since 2008
We provide postmortem examinations (necropsies) to help determine the cause of death, assess disease, or investigate injury or suspected cruelty. Cases may be submitted directly by pet owners, veterinary hospitals, animal control agencies, or legal authorities. Our services are performed by a board-certified veterinary pathologist with extensive experience in diagnostic and forensic pathology.

Standard Diagnostic Necropsy

Complete necropsy with microscopic examinationComplete necropsy with microscopic examinationStarts at $1600 for small animals (cats, small dogs) and may range up to $2500 or more for large-breed dogs or complex cases.

This fee includes:

• - Full postmortem examination (gross necropsy)

• - Histopathology (microscopic evaluation of tissues)

• - Written report with findings and interpretationAdditional fees may apply depending on the condition of the body (e.g., advanced decomposition), size of the animal, and whether specialized testing is needed.

Additional Services and Fees

Courier Service – Call for quote
Available for veterinary hospitals and clinics in certain areas. Availability depends on location and business hours.

Private Cremation (ashes returned) – Typically $300–$450, depending on size

Communal Cremation (no ashes returned) – Starting at $100

Toxicology Testing – Typically $350 per test
Cost varies depending on the specific test and laboratory used.

Other Specialized Testing
Available upon request or as recommended:

• - PCR testing for infectious disease
• - Microbiology (culture and sensitivity)
• - Radiology (typically for suspected fractures)
• - Immunohistochemistry

How to Request a Case

Please call (530) 297-0470 to speak directly with the on-call pathologist before arranging a necropsy. We will discuss the case history, transport options, and provide a cost estimate based on your needs. We do not accept cases from pet owners without prior discussion.

You may also be referred to our intake form, where you can submit information securely online. In most cases, we recommend that medical records be provided, especially if the pet was recently seen by a veterinarian.