Losing a beloved pet is never easy, and choosing the best way to honor their memory can be a deeply personal decision. Traditionally, pet owners have turned to burial or cremation for afterlife care, but a newer, more eco-friendly option is gaining popularity—pet aquamation. Also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, aquamation is an alternative method that offers a gentler, greener way to lay pets to rest.
What is Pet Aquamation?
Aquamation is a process that uses water, temperature, and alkaline chemicals to gently break down the pet’s body over approximately 20 hours, leaving behind only clean bones and a small amount of sterile, nutrient-rich liquid. The procedure mimics the natural decomposition that would occur over many years in soil, but speeds up the process to a matter of hours.
During aquamation, the pet’s body is placed in a specially designed vessel filled with a solution of water and potassium hydroxide. This solution is then heated to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit, but without using the high temperatures required for traditional cremation. As the process occurs, the water-based solution breaks down soft tissues, leaving the bones intact. These bones are then processed into a fine powder, similar to ashes from cremation, and can be returned to the pet owner in an urn.
Why Choose Aquamation?
One of the primary reasons pet owners are choosing aquamation is its environmental benefits. Traditional cremation relies on fossil fuels and releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Pet aquamation, by contrast, uses significantly less energy and produces no harmful emissions. The remaining water from the process is nutrient-rich and can be safely returned to the ecosystem, often used as a soil conditioner.
Aquamation also uses 90% less energy than traditional flame-based cremation, which aligns with the growing desire for sustainable and environmentally conscious practices. For pet owners who are concerned about their environmental footprint, aquamation offers a gentle and earth-friendly option.
A More Gentle Process
In addition to being environmentally friendly, aquamation is seen as a more gentle method of caring for pets after their passing. The process does not involve flames or high heat, which can be a comforting thought for those who prefer a less intense method of afterlife care. The use of water, something associated with life and cleansing, adds a serene and peaceful element to the process.
For pet owners who are sensitive about their pets’ bodies being handled after death, aquamation provides peace of mind. It is a respectful and dignified process that allows for closure in a gentle way. While the pet aquamation process has been around for decades, you may still have additional questions.
Memorial Options with Aquamation
Just like traditional cremation, aquamation allows pet owners to receive their pet’s remains in the form of ashes. These ashes can be kept in an urn, scattered in a meaningful location, or even used to create memorial items such as jewelry or artwork. The flexibility of options makes it easy for pet owners to find a way to memorialize their pets that feels personal and special.
Final Words
As more people become aware of the environmental impact of traditional cremation, pet aquamation is emerging as an eco-friendly and compassionate alternative. It’s a choice that honors the deep connection between pets and their owners while also respecting the planet. This alternative to traditional flame-based pet cremation is a perfect option for all pet owners seeking a gentle, sustainable, and dignified way to say goodbye to their beloved companions.
