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Losing a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult experience that every pet owner faces with great sadness. During this time, there are numerous decisions to work through, some practical, some emotional, and it can get overwhelming. One of those decisions will be how to memorialise your pet.
In this article, we aim to support you through this decision-making process. We’ll explore the differences between pet cremation and burial, work through the pros and cons of each, and provide insights to help you make an informed decision that honours your pets memory in a meaningful way to you.
Pet cremation involves the process in which a pet’s remains are reduced to ashes through high temperature burning. This process is conducted with care and respect, ensuring that the remains are handled in a dignified manner.
For a detailed breakdown of the cremation process, read our guide: “What is pet cremation? Understanding the process.”
You can have your pet cremated alone (a private cremation), and receive their ashes back in a memorial container. Or you can have your pet cremated with friends, where their remains are scattered lovingly on your behalf.
You have flexibility: Pet cremation offers various options such as keeping the ashes in an urn, scattering them in a meaningful place, or turning them into jewellery or art.
It saves space: Cremation eliminates the need for space for a burial, making it a great choice for you if you don’t have access to (or prefer not to use) traditional burial spaces or your backyard.
The remains are portable: Cremated remains are portable, allowing you to easily take them if you move, or want to keep your pet’s memory close regardless of where you are.
There are some environmental considerations: The process of cremation can use a higher number of resources and produce more emissions than burial. This environmental impact should be minimised by the pet crematorium, so be sure to ask them what they are doing to offset their carbon footprint.
Pet burial is the practice of interring your pet’s body in the ground, typically in a designated burial site such as a pet cemetery, a private garden, or another meaningful location chosen by the you.
It involves digging a grave, placing your beloved pet inside a casket or biodegradable shroud, and covering it with soil. Many pet owners choose to select a memorial or gravestone to honour their pet’s final resting place.
You have a permanent memorial: Pet burial gives you a physical and permanent location to visit to pay your respects and reflect on the life of your pet.
It is a natural process: The process of burying your pet and having their body return to the earth is a natural, and environmentally harmonious process.
There is a sense of tradition: Some pet owners prefer a more traditional resting place for their pet, and there is a long history of burial for our loved ones.
You need space: Burials require access to suitable land, which may not be available in urban areas, be full, or may not be permitted by local regulations. Make sure you check with your council before laying your pet to rest in your backyard.
It can be dangerous to other pets: Sometimes your pet’s remains can harm the surrounding environment, or other animals, due to the anaesthetic agent or infectious disease. Before you bury your pet, check with your vet that it is safe to do so.
It is a long-term commitment: Pet burial is a permanent decision, which may pose challenges if your circumstances or location changes.
Now that you have an understanding of both pet cremation and burial, what they involve, and the differences between them, it is time to make an informed decision. There is no right way to do this, but there are some things to think about.
Consider your personal beliefs when deciding how to memorialise your pet. Evaluate logistical factors, such as the cost of the service, whether it is accessible to you, and what environmental impact it may have. And most importantly, take the time to reflect on how your choice aligns with your emotional needs.
Choosing between pet cremation and burial ultimately comes down to what feels right for you and your pet’s memory. Both options offer meaningful ways to remain connected to your pet’s memory. Take time to consider the pros and cons, and choose the farewell that best represents the incredible life they lived.
For more guidance on pet cremation services, reach out to the team at Buddy. We offer premium pet cremation services, can talk you through your options, and our supportive team are here to help you honour the life of your best buddy.
