As pet owners, the decision of how to honor our beloved companions after they pass is never easy. While cremation has long been a common option, more and more people are turning to aquamation as an eco-friendly alternative. This water-based method offers a peaceful, environmentally conscious way to handle a pet’s remains. If you’re considering this option, it’s essential to understand how aquamation compares to traditional cremation, both in terms of process, cost, and emotional considerations. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing aquamation over cremation.
What is Aquamation?
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is a gentle process that uses water, heat, and alkali to break down the body. Unlike cremation, which uses high heat to reduce the body to ash, aquamation takes place in a pressurized chamber where water and chemicals are combined to accelerate the natural decomposition process. The result is a liquid solution that safely returns the body to the environment while leaving behind only the bone fragments. These fragments are then processed into a fine powder, which can be returned to the pet owner in a similar way to cremation ashes.
The Process of Aquamation vs. Cremation
Both aquamation and cremation provide pet owners with a way to honor their pets after passing, but the processes are quite different.
- Cremation: In traditional cremation, a pet’s body is placed in a cremation chamber, where temperatures are raised to about 1,400 to 2,000°F. This intense heat reduces the body to ash and bone fragments, which are then collected, processed, and returned to the pet owner. The process typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Aquamation: The process of aquamation is gentler. The body is placed in a sealed chamber with water and a small amount of alkaline solution. Over the course of several hours, the body is broken down into its natural components, leaving only bone fragments. These fragments are processed into a fine, white powder that is returned to the pet owner. Unlike cremation, which involves high heat, aquamation uses water-based technology and is considered much gentler on the environment.
So, how long does aquamation take? According to Compassionate Care, the first company in Portland to offer aquamation services, aquamation can take about 18 hours to complete, depending on the pet’s size and the provider’s process. The method, while slower, provides a more sustainable and biodegradable outcome.
Emotional Considerations: Which Method Feels Right for You?
The emotional impact of choosing aquamation or cremation is deeply personal. Many pet owners choose cremation because it has been the traditional method for so long. However, aquamation offers an environmentally responsible alternative that may feel more aligned with a pet owner’s values.
Aquamation is a non-invasive, gentle process, and some pet owners feel a sense of comfort knowing that it causes less environmental harm than cremation. The remains returned after aquamation, like the fine bone powder, can be kept in an urn or turned into memorial keepsakes like jewelry or artwork. This process offers a sense of closure and connection, just like cremation, but with an added peace of mind knowing that the method is kinder to the planet.
Choosing the right method for your pet involves reflecting on your emotional needs and what aligns best with your values. If you prioritize eco-consciousness and sustainability, aquamation might be the better choice.
When to Choose Aquamation Over Cremation
Aquamation may be the best choice for certain pet owners. Here are a few scenarios where aquamation could be the preferred option:
- Eco-conscious pet owners: Aquamation is the more environmentally friendly choice. If you’re concerned about the impact of cremation on the environment, aquamation provides a more sustainable solution.
- Those seeking a gentle process: The water-based process of aquamation is much gentler on the body than cremation’s extreme heat. If you want a more peaceful and dignified process for your pet, aquamation may be the ideal choice.
- Larger pets: For larger pets, aquamation can be a better option as the process is more efficient in handling larger remains than cremation.
- Seeking a unique memorial: Aquamation offers the potential for unique memorial items like jewelry or custom keepsakes, which can serve as a lasting tribute to your pet.
How to Find an Aquamation Provider
Finding a certified aquamation provider is crucial when choosing this method for your pet’s final care. Start by researching local providers and ensuring they are reputable, certified, and experienced in the process of aquamation.
When searching for an aquamation provider, it’s important to ask the following questions:
- Is the provider certified and experienced in performing aquamation?
- Are there options for memorialization and keepsakes?
- What is included in the pricing?
Conclusion
Aquamation is a unique, eco-friendly option for pet owners who want a gentle, sustainable way to honor their beloved pets. While it may be more costly and take longer than traditional cremation, it provides a more environmentally conscious solution and is growing in popularity as pet owners seek alternatives to fire-based cremation. Whether you are drawn to the eco-friendly benefits, the gentle process, or the opportunity for personalized memorial keepsakes, aquamation offers a thoughtful choice for pet owners
