Frequently Asked Questions

If you are exploring aftercare choices for your companion, you likely have questions about pet aquamation vs pet cremation. We believe in total transparency and gentle care, so we have gathered answers to our most frequently asked questions to help you make the best choice for your family. For more information about the process and the services we offer, contact us at 417-830-4794.

What is the Difference Between Pet Aquamation vs Pet Cremation?

Traditional pet cremation uses flame and heat to reduce a pet’s body to ashes. In contrast, pet aquamation uses a warm water solution of alkaline salts and gentle flow, mimicking natural breakdown in nature. Aquamation uses 90% less energy than flame cremation and produces zero toxic emissions, making it sustainably the best and most gentle choice for all animals.

Our gentle water cremation process safely accommodates pets of all shapes and sizes:

  • Dogs & Cats: We care for all breeds and sizes.

  • Small & Exotic Pets: We welcome rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice, rats, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, birds (parrots, parakeets, cockatiels), bearded dragons, lizards, ferrets, geckos, turtles, frogs, salmanders, chinchillas, anoles, snakes, fish, and monkeys.

  • Hobby Farm & Outdoor Pets: In addition, we care for pot-bellied pigs, chickens, ducks, geese, raccoons, sheep, and goats.

We have a capacity up to 550 lbs., so just ask us.

Pet Aquamation is an alkaline hydrolysis process that accelerates what would have occurred naturally in Mother Nature with a combination of alkaline, gentle water flow, and low temperature.

The gentle water process dissolves the soft tissues, leaving only the pure bone mineral material.

No, it is the opposite of acid. In fact, an alkali neutralizes acids. Manufacturers commonly use these same alkalis cosmetic products, body washes, shaving creams, and food preparation.

Yes, our gentle process creates 100% sterile and safe remains. It completely neutralizes all pathogens and diseases, regardless of any medications your pet took prior to passing.

Amos Herbert Hobson patented alkaline hydrolysis (Aquamation) in 1888. Over the past 30 years, premier medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic have trusted this process. Today, more pet parents choose Aquamation as they learn about the environmental impacts of flame-based cremation.

Aquamation takes up to 20 hours. After the process, there is a drying period. You can expect your pet to be returned to you within 7-10 days.

No. It is the equivalent of two to three pet baths. This includes all of the water used for the process and clean water rinses.

Tranquil Tides offers the option for you to drop off your pet at our facility, or we can pick them up at your home. Please call us to schedule either option so we can assist you. We recommend keeping your loved one wrapped in a cool area with something absorbent underneath until we can transport them.
Tranquil Tides offers the option for you to drop off your pet at our facility, or we can pick them up at your home. Please call us to schedule either option so we can assist you. We recommend keeping your loved one wrapped in a cool area with something absorbent underneath until we can transport them.

Absolutely, we’d be honored to assist you. Please contact us to make arrangements to pick up your pet or for you to bring them to us. If leaving with your vet, make sure to request aquamation and fill out our Pet Release Form.

Tranquil Tides Pet Aquamation offers a water cremation option for a dog, cat or small pet cremation. We service Nixa, Ozark, Springfield, Branson, Rogersville, Republic, Monett, Willard, Clever, Mt. Vernon, Fair Grove, Ava, Lebanon, Bolivar, Buffalo, Kimberling City, Seymour, Marshfield. Monett, Aurora, Sparta, Highlandville, Strafford, Cabool, Mountain Grove, Galena, Billings, Hollister, Branson West, Blue Eye, Lampe, Joplin, West Plains, Crane, Forsyth, and all the surrounding communities in Southwest Missouri and beyond.  We also service the Northern Arkansas areas like Bella Vista, Rogers, Bentonville, Harrison, Fayetteville, Eureka Springs, and Mountain Home AR.