The scientific name for this process is Alkaline Hydrolysis
The scientific name for this process is Alkaline Hydrolysis. It is the same process that occurs as part of nature's course when a body is laid to rest in the soil.
We use a combination of gentle water flow, temperature, and alkalinity to accelerate the breakdown of organic material. This process takes a total of 20 hours to complete. At the end of the process, the inorganic materials of the bone remain. This is pure calcium phosphate. The mineral remains are carefully dried and processed into a powder for return to the family. This processing step is identical to that which is performed with flame cremation. Once you have received your loved one's ashes, there are many ways to continue your journey. Anything you can do with cremation ashes you can also do with Aquamation ashes.
By putting your trust in HeavenLee Companion Aquamation, you can rest easy knowing we'll treat them as well as you did. If your pet passes away at home, wrap them in a blanket, lie them somewhere cool and give us a call. If your pet is being put down, let your veterinarian know that you have made arrangements for aquamation and HeavenLee Companion Aquamation will come pick them up, no further worries on your end.
Remember, if your veterinarian does not offer pet aquamation services, you can still request the services from any other veterinary. Get in touch with HeavenLee Companion Aquamation through 256-887-6008 for the best aftercare services for your beloved pet so you can honor their life in a dignified and eco-friendly way.
Common Questions About Pet Aquamation
It is understandable to want to know as much about the process of pet aquamation as possible before choosing it. At HeavenLee Companion Aquamation in Cullman, Alabama we understand that this is still a fairly new option, so we are more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Here are a few of the most common questions that we get asked about pet aquamation.
What happens during the pet aquamation process?
Pet aquamation is an alkaline hydrolysis process that accelerates what would have occurred had your pet been buried instead. With a combination of alkalinity, gentle water flow, and low temperature, the soft tissues are dissolved, leaving only the bone mineral material. Each pet is handled individually in its own stainless-steel container rather than with several other pets, as is often the case with cremation.
What do you mean by alkalinity? Is that an acid?
No, it is actually the opposite of an acid. In fact, an alkali neutralizes acids. Only a small amount of alkali is necessary for the pet aquamation process.
How long does pet aquamation take?
It is a very gentle process that takes 20 hours to complete.
Do I need to be careful with the ashes? Are they dangerous to me or my family?
The bone mineral that remains after the aquamation process is completely safe to handle. The process renders them pathogen and disease-free regardless of the medications or medical procedures your pet had prior to their death. Feel free to distribute the ashes as you wish or keep them in an urn in your home.
Does the pet aquamation process use a lot of water?
We understand being concerned about water conservation. With the low flow of water needed and the cleaning of the vessel and mineral bone after the process is complete, the water usage over the roughly 20 hours is similar to what a typical family uses during that same period of time. In addition, the water that is released is a sterile solution that we give to farmers for a natural fertilizer.
What makes pet aquamation such an environmentally friendly option?
First of all, it is an energy-efficient process representing a 90% energy savings when compared to the standard cremation process. In addition, it does not release dangerous emissions into the atmosphere.