How Long Does Aquamation Take?

Cat near water

We are all faced with the decision of end-of-life care for ourselves. The same goes for our precious pets in our families. Tranquil Tides offers a pet aquamation service for families. This water-based pet cremation is an eco-friendly alternative to fire cremation and burial, but it can take a bit longer due to the gentle mimicking of Mother Nature.

Understanding the time it takes for this process can help pet owners make an informed decision during a difficult time. This blog will answer many questions of “How long does Aquamation take for pets?” by exploring the key factors that influence the process. What follows may surprise those unfamiliar with this gentle and eco-friendly farewell option.  I know I was surprised when I first read about pet aquamation.  This was a journey that was, and still is, a very rewarding service to be able to help so many pet parents with their fur baby’s farewell journey.

Why Aquamation Takes Several Hours

Understanding how our pet aquamation process operates can give you peace of mind in honoring your beloved family member. Through our technology, water is utilized instead of fire to restore a pet’s body to its natural state in nature. This innovative method utilizes water, heat, gentle motion, and alkaline solutions to accelerate the natural decomposition of organic matter. As pet owners seek meaningful ways to honor their beloved companions, pet aquamation provides a compassionate option that minimizes environmental impact.

The pet aquamation vessel is made of stainless steel and can be divided into individual chambers. After each pet is respectfully placed into the aquamation chamber, the vessel fills with warm water and alkali and will gently circulate for 18-20 hours. Because the salt-based water/alkali solution is heated to only 204 degrees F, not boiling, the process takes longer than flame cremation, which uses heat of 1400-2000 degrees F. Our pet aquamation slowly speeds up the natural process rather than relying on fire to consume the remains.

Once the pet aquamation system is finished, all organic material is reduced to its most basic building blocks, leaving a sterile water solution and mineral bone remaining. After a drying period, which could take up to 24-48 hours, your pet’s ashes will be returned to you and placed in an urn. Tranquil Tides can assist you with our pet aquamation service to honor your family member with a dignified and gentle goodbye for a life of unconditional love.

How Long Does Fire-Based Cremation Last?

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Many families choose cremation to preserve their beloved pet’s remains. Understanding the differences between traditional fire-based cremation and water-based cremation will guide you in making that heartfelt decision. With fire cremation, the pet’s remains are incinerated using high heat, around 1400-2000 degrees F. Depending on the size and weight of your pet, this can take 2-3 hours. Plus, traditional cremation often involves additional waiting for the ashes to cool and be processed, sometimes extending the timeframe to days.

Although the actual cremation is faster, flame cremation requires an excessive level of heat and uses a lot of energy. It also emits harmful greenhouse gases, and some of the bone is destroyed and expelled into the atmosphere through incineration. In comparison, our pet aquamation gives 20%-30% more ashes back while preserving the impact on the environment.

Understanding the differences between pet aquamation, traditional pet cremation, and burial can help pet owners make informed decisions during a difficult time.  With the result of choosing a method that aligns with their values and provides an appropriate farewell for their cherished pets.

How Long After Aquamation Can Pet Ashes Be Received?

At Tranquil Tides Pet Aquamation, we understand having your cherished pet returned to you will help you in finding some closure. We work towards a quick turnaround and will call you when your family member is ready to come home. We strive for 7-10 days, if not sooner.

This low carbon footprint process allows the family member to receive 20% more ashes of their beloved pet. Our process is not only safe for dogs and cats, but for many more small animals and exotic pets.  For instance, hamsters, rabbits, birds, bearded dragons, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, snakes, guinea pigs, mice, rats, monkeys, lizards, fish, and goats. In fact without the incineration from the high heat of traditional pet cremation, pet aquamation leaves you with more of your cherished pet to bring home. And, that is pretty important when honoring the gift of love they gave you unconditionally.

Can I Pre-Plan for Pet Aquamation?

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Knowing that someday there will have to be end-of-life arrangements, Tranquil Tides Pet Aquamation can help you prepare for that. We have a simple form on our website that can be completed to get your wishes on file with your veterinarian. This form can also be electronically sent to us. Having a plan will help you free up time so you can focus all your love and attention on your furry best friend.

We are always here to support you whether your pet passes on planned or suddenly. Our goal is to take some of that stress away and make it less overwhelming. Give us a call so we can walk you through the pet aquamation process and assist you in choosing the right pet memorabilia.

Contact Tranquil Tides with any questions or service needs you may have. Join the many pet parents who have chosen pet aquamation as a way to pay tribute to their pet’s memory. Through aquamation, families can find comfort in knowing they are choosing a method that reflects love, care, and responsibility toward the planet. In essence, a compassionate farewell while preserving the planet’s health for future generations.