Losing a pet has never been easy. It is a time full of emotions, and a family is often left bewildered about what to do with the pet’s body. One of the most common options they have is to choose between cremation and burial.
Understanding Pet Cremation
In recent years, pet cremation has gained popularity. It provides families with an easy and dignified method of farewell.
Cremation mainly exists in two forms: private and communal. In private cremation, only a single pet is cremated. Afterwards, the remains are given back to the owner. In communal cremation, several pets are cremated in the same chamber. Usually, in this option, the remains are not returned.
Pros
- It leaves the families with choices of keeping, scattering, or burying the ashes.
- It is located nearly everywhere and is usually cheaper than a complete burial.
- It is fast and conducted by experts, which guarantees peace of mind.
Cons
- There is no physical location to visit.
- It is irreversible. This is something that some individuals may not be able to accept.
Understanding Pet Burial
Families may bury their pets in the garden (assuming this is legal) or in a pet cemetery. It establishes a memorial site to remind future generations.
Home burials are usually private and silent. Usually, pet cemeteries don’t just provide more formal services. They also maintain the gravesite.
Pros
- It offers a tangible location to go to. This often helps in the healing process.
- Some families feel more comfortable and natural with burial.
- A home burial can be economical when it is legal and properly done.
Cons
- Home burial can be illegal in some places, particularly in urban areas or rented houses.
- Pet cemeteries may be prohibitive and distant.
- The weather and time may influence the gravesite.
Important Factors to Consider
To take the right step, paying attention to some factors is important. The following are some of these factors that can help you make a decision:
- Place of residence: Is your residence a city or a town? If so, burying might not be possible. In this case, cremation will be more convenient.
- Price: Cremation services are more economical compared to burial services.
- Mobility: The most appropriate choice is cremation. This is true, especially when you intend to move in the future. Cremating your pet means that you retain its ashes.
- Cause of death: In the case of in-home pet euthanasia, your vet will organize cremation. It is not just faster. It is also less emotional than organizing a burial.
- Emotional comfort: Some people prefer a grave to visit. However, other people wish to keep their ashes in an urn. So, choose what gives peace to your family.
So, which is the best option for your family? Well, both options have pros and cons. So, don’t just make a decision based on your decision. Make a decision, too, based on what will help you remember your pet. To make the decision even easier, try to calm down. If possible, also discuss it with your family.
