Losing a beloved pet can be one of the hardest things we go through. We want their send-off to be beautiful and meaningful. One common way to do so is burial, whether it is at home or a pet cemetery.
Below is a list of considerations when choosing burial for your furry friend.
Plan
- Check with your local administrative office if animal burial on private property is legal in your area.
- Pick your location. Somewhere memorable so you can find again to visit. Avoid a place that will be disturbed in the future (such as flower beds which are dug in repeatedly).
- Do not bury your pet on public land, near water sources, food sources, swamps, or in floodplains.
- For your own safety, know where underground utilities are located beforehand. You can call Digger’s hotline at 811 if you are unsure.
- If you plan on moving in the future, burial on private land might not be the best choice for you to be able to visit your companion after the move. There are pet cemeteries and crematories who can help you and your furry friend with love and respect.
Prepare
- Know the dimensions of your hole ahead of time. Make sure there is enough space for your pet to lay on their side and curled up in a sleeping position, or for a casket (caskets are not required but some families do prefer to use one). The hole should be three to five feet (3-5′) deep from the top of your pet to the surface.
- Are there things you would like to send with your pet? Letters, poems, pictures, flowers, favorite toys, treats, and blankets are common in send-offs. There are many creative options, make it your own meaningful goodbye. It is also common for families to choose to hold onto their pet’s belongings as keepsakes.
- Are there things you wish to keep before burial? (Collars, harnesses, tags, bandannas, a lock of fur). Check that they are in a safe place before your furry friend is laid to rest.
Protect
- Gently lower your pet into their resting place and cover them with all of the earth from digging the hole. Add a memorial stone, planted tree, or other item on top to protect them from wildlife.
Protect your pet not only as respect for your beloved companion, but also if they were euthanized, the medicines used are still within the body. These medicines could have the same euthanizing effect on scavengers – including eagles.
Disclaimer: The above statements are merely considerations. Fur-Ever Loved LLC is not held liable for any repercussions of unlawful burial by any persons.