Aquamation also results in bone remains that tend to be more brittle as they contain only the bone mineral calcium phosphate. The “ash” is actually pulverized bone fragments left behind after the other organic material is burned away. The water solution is recycled or can be returned to nature as a liquid fertilizer containing micronutrients, amino acids and sugars that are beneficial to the environment.Īfter flame cremation, some pet families choose to have the “ashes” returned to them.

After 18 hours, the alkali has been completely consumed and all organic material in the body is reduced to its most basic building blocks, leaving a sterile water solution and inorganic bone remains. The alkalis make up only 5% of the water solution and are the same alkalis used in cosmetic products, body washes, and even food preparation. The amount of water used during aquamation is low about the same amount a family would use to give the pet a bath. A combination of gentle water flow, warm temperature, and alkali chemical are used to accelerate the natural process of tissue breakdown. The body is placed inside a stainless-steel machine designed specifically for pets. This process is essentially an accelerated version of what takes place during natural decomposition in the soil, similar to Mother Nature. Aquamation is approved for use in the human funeral industry in more than 20 states.

The modern technology has been in place for over 25 years and is used for both animal and human disposal in prestigious hospitals like Mayo Clinic and many other major universities across the country like UCLA and Duke University. It is a water-based process known scientifically as alkaline hydrolysis and was patented more than 130 years ago. It uses no fossil fuels and uses less than 10% of the energy of traditional flame cremation. Flame cremation burns fossil fuels at 1400-1800 F° and releases greenhouse gases and other pollutants into the air.Īquamation is a pet aftercare alternative that has no harmful greenhouse gas emissions and does not contaminate the soil or ground water. These toxic substances can pose a danger to the ecosystem as they could be ingested by scavengers that might dig in the burial area. Ground burial produces methane, a greenhouse gas, and can release harmful euthanasia medications or other chemicals in the soil. Both processes result in a breakdown of body tissues and leave bone remains, but both also come with disadvantages for the environment. Until recently, pet owners have been limited to burying their friend in the ground or choosing flame cremation. Unfortunately, all pets eventually pass away and families are faced with the decision of what to do with their beloved companion’s body.

Dog cremation glass art