What to Do When Moved Before Cremating Your Pet: Buried Cat Discovered After 3 Years

When a beloved pet such as a cat passes away, the loss is profound. Many pet owners choose to cremate their pets, either through a dedicated pet crematorium or by transporting the remains to a commercial facility. However, moving circumstances can sometimes delay the cremation process. In such cases, the remains may be buried with the intention of having the cremation done later. This raises several questions: what can be done with buried pet remains, and is it ethical to exhume a pet after it has been buried?

Excavating Buried Pet Remains

There are a few key considerations when it comes to excavating a pet buried in plastic and buried under a towel. If you discover your pet’s remains three years later, it is possible to dig them up, but it is a difficult process and should be approached with caution. The remains will likely be very decomposed, and it may be unsuitable for transmitting the ashes of your pet. Before taking any action, it is crucial to check with local pet crematoriums to see if they will accept your pet’s remains for cremation.

Hygienic Precautions: If you decide to dig up the remains, take good hygiene precautions regarding handling the body. The decomposed remains may contain harmful pathogens. Always wear gloves and ensure that the area is well ventilated. After digging up the remains, it is recommended to dispose of them hygienically and securely.

Why Not Excavate?

Geographically, it is possible for the body to remain undisturbed. However, given that the cat was buried in a plastic bag and wrapped in a towel, the body will likely be badly decomposed. Excavating it could be unpleasant and potentially dangerous. There may be varying legal and ethical considerations depending on local laws, but there generally are no legal restrictions on the exhumation of dead animals.

H L?ch Trình Ch?n Ph?c V?t Cho Cremation

Instead of excavating, many owners opt for a commercial pet crematorium. These facilities offer a professional and hygienic process for pet cremation. If you decide to proceed, ensure you follow their specific rules on how to package the remains. Ideally, the cat’s remains should be wrapped in a natural material, such as cotton or linen. Cardboard boxes also break down in the ground, but using plastic is not generally recommended. Some commercial pet crematoriums may not accept plastic-wrapped remains due to hygiene concerns.

legal Restrictions and Alternatives

Legally, there are no restrictions on the exhumation of dead animals. However, it is important to consider the ethical implications. Burning the body on a bonfire is an alternative, but it is only permitted if local laws and regulations allow it. Once the cremation process is complete, you can choose to receive the ashes or have them buried in a pet cemetery or scattering garden.

Conclusion

While it is possible to unearth a pet buried three years ago, it is often not advisable. The remains may be badly decomposed and handling them could be unpleasant and dangerous. If you have already moved, contacting a local pet crematorium is the best course of action. They will have the expertise and equipment needed to handle and cremate the remains safely and hygienically. Remember, the remains are a tribute to your pet, and respecting their passing is an important part of the grieving process.