Pet aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an alternative method for the disposition of a deceased pet’s remains. It differs from traditional pet cremation in the process used to break down the body. Here are the key differences between pet aquamation and pet cremation:
Process:
Pet Aquamation: This process involves placing the pet’s body in a specialized chamber filled with a water and alkali solution. The combination of water, heat, and alkalinity accelerates the natural decomposition process, leaving behind bone minerals. The remaining substance, often referred to as “ashes” or “cremains,” consists of a sterile liquid and a small amount of softened bone fragments.
Pet Cremation: Traditional pet cremation involves exposing the pet’s body to high temperatures in a cremation chamber. The heat reduces the body to bone fragments, and these fragments are further processed to create the ashes that are returned to the pet owner.
Environmental Impact:
Pet Aquamation: Advocates of aquamation often highlight its environmental friendliness. The process uses less energy and releases fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional cremation.
Pet Cremation: Traditional cremation involves the burning of fossil fuels and can release carbon dioxide and other emissions into the atmosphere.
Residue:
Pet Aquamation: The residue left after aquamation is a sterile liquid, and the bone fragments are softened. The liquid can be safely returned to the environment or to wastewater treatment systems.
Pet Cremation: The residue from cremation is the ashes, which consist of bone fragments. These ashes are typically returned to the pet owner.
Time:
Pet Aquamation: Aquamation tends to be a longer process than traditional cremation.
Pet Cremation: Cremation is a quicker process.
Bone Fragments:
Pet Aquamation: The bone fragments remaining after aquamation are often softer and can be easily crushed into a powder.
Pet Cremation: The bone fragments from cremation are more rigid and may require additional processing to achieve a finer ash consistency.
The choice between pet aquamation and pet cremation often depends on personal preferences, environmental considerations, and the available options in your area. Both methods provide pet owners with a means of respectfully handling their pet’s remains.
Both services are available in LovingVet Mobile App, in which you can schedule a home visit with a veterinary of your choice and select the aftercare option, being Aquamation or Cremation.