Aquamation Process
We care about the environment and we can help reduce our carbon footprint during our pet's final journey.
Did you know that regular pet cremation uses as much energy as a 500-mile car ride? That is almost equal to a trip from Winnipeg to Thunder Bay! It also releases toxic emissions from implants and emits other greenhouse gasses. Aquamation is water cremation. Aquamation is much more eco-friendly and uses far less energy. The process uses alkali and water, which are found in natural soaps and shampoos. It is the same process that occurs in nature if you buried your pet in the ground, just accelerated. The process uses 90% less energy and only about as much water as a 10-minute shower. Aquamation has no emissions and implants can actually be recycled. You still get your pet’s ashes returned to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is aquamation?
Aquamation is an environmentally friendly water based process also known as alkaline hydrolysis. It is the same process that occurs in nature when a body is laid to rest in the soil, only accelerated. The process takes approximately 18 - 20 hours depending on the size and type of animal. Aquamation uses a combination of gentle water flow, warm temperature, and alkalinity. Like flame cremation, ashes will be returned to you or to the Earth. The ash is lighter in color because it is clean without carbon discoloration. There is also approximately 20% more ashes returned since this is a gentle water-based process that does not burn away the remains.
The Pet 400 is what we use here at Peaceful Pasture Pet Cremation.
Animals are respectfully placed in individual chambers and the entire process takes approximately 18-20 hours.
Because our process is so gentle, families receive up to 20% more remains when compared to flame cremation.
How do I know I'm getting back only the ashes of my pet?
At Peaceful Pasture Pet Cremation our pets are members of our family and we understand how important they are. We use a metal ID tag to keep track of your pet throughout the entire process. From your veterinarian's clinic or drop off at our site, until they are returned to you. Pets are placed in individual compartments in the aquamation system. Once the system is closed, the process is hands-free and automated. There is never any co-mingling of remains during private aquamation.
How much water does aquamation use?
Aquamation uses just a small amount of water, equivalent to about a 10-minute shower.
Why consider aquamation for my pet?
Aquamation uses 90% less energy than traditional flame cremation. Aquamation is gentle, eco-friendly, and has zero emissions. You also get more of your pet's ashes returned to you. Of all the methods of pet disposition, traditional cremation is the least eco-friendly. Traditional cremation uses a large amount of natural gas to heat the fire to 1400+ degrees, equivalent to a 500-mile car trip. Additionally, a large amount of toxic emissions and harmful greenhouse gasses are released into the air from the process.
My pet passed away at home. What do I do?
Take your time to say goodbye. You can use ice packs to keep your pet stable and minimize odor if your pet passes away during the night or if it may take some time to get your pet to us. You can also use ice packs to keep your pet stable while you take some time to have a home viewing with friends and family. You do not need to place your pet in a bag or box. You can bring them in a towel, favorite blanket, or whatever is comfortable for you. A potty pad can help contain any moisture your pet may release. Every situation is different, so please feel free to contact us for additional questions about preparing your pet to be transported.
I want to use your service, but my veterinarian has not heard of you yet.
You have a choice in who handles your pet's final journey. Contact us and we will work with your veterinarian to take care of your pet's arrangements.
We also work with a variety of veterinary offices in Winnipeg and surrounding areas.
Please visit our Veterinary Teams Page for a complete list.
Do you have other questions?
Do you have other questions? Please contact us and we will be happy to answer them.