What to Do When Your Dog Dies of Natural Causes at Home
Dealing with the loss of a beloved pet is incredibly difficult. Once your dog has passed away, it's important to know what to do with their body. This article will guide you through the process of taking care of your pet after they have passed away, including contacting veterinarians, using vet cremation services, and burial options.
Options for Pet Aftercare
Before making any decisions, it's crucial to understand that even though it can be difficult, your pet's body is not just a shell. In fact, taking proper steps for their aftercare is a respectful and caring gesture. This process can involve a variety of options, from calling your local animal control to arranging for cremation or burial. Let's explore these options in detail.
Calling Animal Control
If you live in a rural area or your pet has passed away to the point that you can easily contact a local animal control service, they usually offer low-cost or no-cost services for disposing of deceased pets. Simply give them a call, and they will provide guidance on how to proceed. However, it's vital to check local regulations to ensure this method is applicable in your area.
Calling Your Veterinarian
Your veterinarian can often provide the most convenient and professional aftercare options. Most vet clinics offer pickup services for deceased pets. In addition, they can also arrange for the disposal of the body. When you choose this route, they will usually take care of the entire process, including arranging for either cremation or burial.
Home Burial and Cremation
If your local environment allows it, you can opt to bury your pet at home. While this can be a comforting and personal choice, it's essential to follow specific safety guidelines. Place the body in a heavy-duty plastic bag and encase it in a secure receptacle, such as a wooden or metal box. Bury the body at least three feet deep to prevent other animals from being attracted by the scent.
For those unable to perform a home burial, consider constructing a cremation pit. Given that you have ample firewood, building a small and contained fire pit can be an effective solution. This method ensures that the process is handled privately and with respect.
Professional Cremation Services
Consulting with your veterinarian for recommendations on cremation services is highly advisable. Many veterinarians have partnerships with professional cremation services that offer pickup for pets. These services typically provide a range of options, including: Group farm burial Cremation and ash return Specialized disposal
Another option is to call your city or county “Waste Management” department and ask about large animal services. They may be able to provide guidance on local regulations and services.
Personal Experiences
Constructing a Cremation Pit: In my experience, when our poodle passed away during a harsh winter, we had to build a cremation pit due to frozen ground. With plenty of firewood, we were able to create a small, contained fire to cremate our beloved pet respectfully.
Home Burial: In another instance, a call to a neighbor revealed that they too had constructed a cremation pit in their backyard. This method has been chosen by many pet owners in similar situations, ensuring a private and respectful farewell to their pets.
Cremation Services: Many pet owners have found that veterinarians and waste management departments are invaluable resources. They can provide recommendations on professional cremation services that can take care of the entire process, including pickup, cremation, and returning the ashes if that is your preference.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, consider reaching out to these resources for guidance and support. The choice of what to do with your pet's body can be a deeply personal one, but knowing your options can make the decision-making process smoother and more manageable.