Burial Or Cremation

Arlo Guthrie — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:25:33 GMT

Current Revision posted to The Practice Survival Guide by Arlo Guthrie on 1/8/2009 11:25:33 AM

There are a number of options available to the client. Make sure that you are familiar with those offered by your practice. As a general guide, the following are the usual methods of burial and cremation:

Home burial.
Many people with a garden chose to bury their pets at home. The size and depth of the grave must be sufficient to accommodate the animal without risk of disturbance from wild animals or future owners of the property. The pet should not be wrapped in plastic as this will affect normal decomposition. There are a number of companies specialising in memorials for pets, or a shrub or tree could be planted.
Routine cremation.
This is an economical and sensible option. The practice will have a contract with a pet crematorium who will collect the bodies from the surgery and carry out cremation. Routine cremation involves the cremation of several pets at once. The ashes are usually scattered in the grounds. A reputable company will encourage inspection by clients and allow them to visit the garden of remembrance.
Individual/private cremation.
Pets are individually cremated by the pet crematorium and the ashes returned to the surgery for the client to collect. Many clients find returning to the surgery very traumatic, and may appreciate it if you offer to deliver the ashes (if staffing levels permit). Most crematoria offer a choice of container. A biodegradable box is the cheaper option - the ashes can then be kept, buried or scattered. A polished, wooden casket may be preferred and usually this will come with an engraved name plate.
Burial at a pet cemetery.
This can be organised either by the practice or by the client who may prefer to make their own arrangements.