What Vets Do With Deceased Dogs
When the unfortunate time comes that our furry friends pass on, many pet owners are left wondering about the next steps. How are they handled at the veterinarian’s office? What are the options available?
1. Immediate Aftercare
Temporary Storage: Once a pet has been declared deceased at a vet clinic, they’re usually kept in a cool environment. This is done to preserve the body until the next steps are decided, either by the pet owner or standard practices of the vet clinic.
2. Cremation Options
Group Cremation: The most common method chosen by pet owners is group cremation. In this process, several pets are cremated together, and their ashes are typically scattered in a designated memorial area or disposed of responsibly by the crematory service.
Private Cremation: For owners who wish to retain their pet’s ashes, a private cremation is offered. Here, pets are cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to the owner, usually in an urn or a special container.
Specialized Services: There are also cremation services that specialize in creating mementos, such as jewelry pieces made from ashes, to serve as a lasting memory for the owner.
3. Handling at Home
Transport: If a pet passes away at home, owners have the option to transport their deceased pet to their vet. Here, they can discuss aftercare options and decide on the best course of action.
4. Burial Options
Home Burial: For those with yard space and where local regulations permit, home burials can be an intimate way to say goodbye. It’s essential, however, to check with local bylaws to ensure it’s a legal option.
Pet Cemeteries: Similar to human cemeteries, there are designated areas for pets. These offer a space where owners can visit and remember their pets in a serene environment.
5. Donation for Scientific Study
Though not a common choice, some educational institutions accept deceased pets for scientific research and study. This helps veterinary students gain practical knowledge, and in some cases, it can also aid in furthering veterinary medicine.
6. Handling the Emotional Toll
Grief Counseling: Recognizing the deep bond between pets and their owners, many vet clinics now offer grief counseling or can recommend specialized therapists who deal with pet loss.
7. Euthanized Animals: Special Care
Pets that are euthanized due to illnesses or other issues have to be handled with extra care. There are specific regulations in place about their disposal, given the euthanizing agents used.
8. Awareness & Responsibility
Pet owners should be aware that simply leaving their deceased pets at the vet doesn’t absolve them of any financial responsibility. Depending on the chosen aftercare service, there might be costs involved, such as cremation fees or urn purchases.
9. Changing Trends & Sustainable Practices
In recent times, eco-friendly disposal methods have also started to gain traction. These include biodegradable urns and green burials. Vets are increasingly providing information about such sustainable options for eco-conscious pet owners.
10. Final Words from the Vet
Always communicate with your vet and ask questions about what you don’t understand. They’re there to help you through this challenging time, providing both emotional support and practical solutions.
FAQs on the Aftercare of Deceased Dogs
1. Can I be present during my pet’s cremation?
Answer: Yes, many crematories allow pet owners to be present during the cremation process. This can provide a sense of closure and a final opportunity to say goodbye. However, always check with the facility in advance to ensure they accommodate such requests.
2. How long after my pet’s passing should I decide on aftercare options?
Answer: Ideally, decisions regarding aftercare should be made as soon as possible due to the natural decomposition process. Most vet clinics and crematories advise making a decision within 24-48 hours.
3. Are there specific regulations for home burials?
Answer: Regulations for home pet burials vary based on locality. Some areas may have restrictions related to proximity to water sources, depth of burial, or type of container used. Always check local bylaws and guidelines before proceeding with a home burial.
4. What are biodegradable urns?
Answer: Biodegradable urns are containers made from natural materials that break down over time. They are designed to minimize environmental impact, allowing the pet’s ashes to naturally integrate with the earth, often nourishing the surrounding soil.
5. How do I ensure the ashes I receive are genuinely my pet’s after private cremation?
Answer: Trustworthy crematories use a strict identification system involving tags or codes to ensure the ashes returned to owners are indeed their pets’. It’s essential to choose a reputable service and ask about their tracking procedures.
6. How can I memorialize my pet beyond ashes or burial?
Answer: Memorial options have evolved over time. Today, you can opt for custom-made jewelry containing a small portion of your pet’s ashes, commission artwork or portraits, or even have a plush replica made. Some services also offer to turn ashes into diamonds or gemstones.
7. Can I donate my pet’s body for a noble cause?
Answer: Yes, some organizations and educational institutions accept pet body donations for research, training, or conservation efforts. This not only aids scientific progress but can also serve as a lasting legacy for your pet.
8. What happens if I can’t afford a private cremation or burial service?
Answer: Many vet clinics and animal shelters offer communal cremation services at a lower cost or even free of charge. While you may not receive your pet’s individual ashes, you can take solace in knowing they were laid to rest respectfully.
9. Are there support groups for dealing with the loss of a pet?
Answer: Absolutely. Numerous support groups, both online and offline, help pet owners navigate the grief of losing their cherished companions. Many vet clinics can provide referrals or resources for local support groups or counseling services.
10. Are there environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional cremation?
Answer: Yes, emerging techniques such as aquamation or alkaline hydrolysis use water instead of fire to break down the pet’s body. This method produces less carbon dioxide and pollutants, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
11. Is it common for vets to offer grief counseling resources?
Answer: Many veterinary clinics recognize the deep bond between pets and their owners. As a result, they often have a list of recommended grief counselors or therapists who specialize in pet loss. They may also have brochures or literature on coping strategies.
12. Can I request a special ceremony before my pet’s cremation or burial?
Answer: Absolutely. Many pet aftercare facilities understand the significance of the grieving process and are accommodating to special requests or ceremonies. Whether it’s a moment of silence, a prayer, or playing a favorite song, it’s about giving a personal touch to the farewell.
13. How do different cultures handle pet aftercare?
Answer: Around the world, cultural practices can vary significantly. In some cultures, pets are buried with ceremonies akin to human funerals, while in others, there are rituals, prayers, or specific mourning periods. It’s always enlightening to explore and respect the diverse ways in which different societies honor their deceased pets.
14. Are there pet cemeteries available?
Answer: Yes, pet cemeteries are dedicated spaces where pets are interred, often with headstones or markers. These cemeteries can be standalone or part of larger facilities that serve both pets and humans. Many pet cemeteries also offer maintenance services to ensure the grounds remain well-kept.
15. What is a pet memorial service?
Answer: Similar to human memorial services, a pet memorial service is a gathering of individuals to remember and celebrate the life of a deceased pet. It provides an opportunity for closure, sharing stories, and honoring the pet’s memory. Such services can be held at home, in parks, or designated venues.
16. Can I opt for taxidermy for my pet?
Answer: Yes, taxidermy is a method of preserving a pet’s body by mounting or stuffing it. Some individuals choose this to have a lifelike memorial of their pet. If considering taxidermy, it’s essential to consult with experienced professionals to understand the process and potential challenges.
17. Are there pet memorial products I can purchase?
Answer: Numerous companies specialize in pet memorial products, from engraved jewelry and custom-made urns to memorial stones and personalized keepsake boxes. The aim is to offer pet owners tangible mementos to remember their beloved companions.
18. How are large pets like horses typically laid to rest?
Answer: The process for larger animals can be more complex due to their size. Options include burial in designated large animal cemeteries, cremation (though not all facilities can accommodate very large animals), or composting, which is an eco-friendly way of returning the animal’s remains to the earth.
19. What are “living memorials” for pets?
Answer: A living memorial involves creating a lasting tribute that grows over time, such as planting a tree or garden in memory of the pet. This offers a living, breathing reminder of the pet, symbolizing life and renewal.
20. Can I scatter my pet’s ashes in a public place?
Answer: While the act of scattering ashes can be a profound experience, it’s crucial to check local regulations. Some public parks, beaches, or landmarks may have restrictions. Always obtain necessary permissions and ensure you’re respectful of the environment and other visitors.
