The death of a family pet is an event that brings with it special grief. What makes this mourning period even more stressful is the fact that the owner is immediately faced with the decision of what to do with the remains of the faithful friend. While a pet cemetery may be a viable option, costs can range from $500 for a simple plastic casket and stone marker to more elaborate burial packages of $2,000 or more, which may not be within the budget of most. of pet owners. A vet’s office can dispose of the remains for a nominal fee, but such a choice may seem cold. For most people, a simple backyard burial or cremation remains the only viable alternative, but which is the best option?
OFFICE
PROS – Given the need to quickly provide a final resting place for a prized pet, burial on or near the owner’s property is the most popular option among pet owners.
This method is not only relatively inexpensive, but it can also provide a bereaved owner with comforting closure in knowing that the pet has been given a final resting place close to home. Adding a memorial stone, engraved marker, or wind chime at or near the pet’s grave adds a lasting memory and keepsake for the beloved pet.
CONS -Unless you live in a rural area, local city laws and/or home associations may limit or even prohibit pet burials on an owner’s property. Even if burial is permitted, special care must be taken, not only to prepare a hole deep enough to discourage scavengers, but also in cases of large pets, to use a suitable container to avoid a depression in the grave once once decomposition begins.
CREMATION
PROS – When the cremation option is chosen, the bereaved owner is spared the trouble of handling the remains, checking local laws regarding pet burial, and digging up the plot. (This would be a particular advantage during the winter months). Most veterinarians will be able to handle cremations themselves or arrange to have the procedure done elsewhere. The ashes can be kept in an urn next to a framed picture of the beloved pet or scattered in a yard where the animal loved to play. If desired, a small portion of the ashes can even be placed in an elegant piece of cremation memorial jewelry.
CONS – Depending on the size of the animal, “Private” (single pet, rather than community) pet cremation costs can range from $75.00 to $400.00 depending on the size of the animal. Some crematoriums may charge additional fees for services performed after hours and on weekends. There may also be some laws in the owner’s city that limit the scattering of ashes.
The choice between a garden burial and cremation is not an easy one for a pet owner to make. While cost and convenience factors must be considered, it will ultimately be the pet owner’s heart that decides the final resting place for their lost companion.
