Pet Burial Customs

Pets have always been important to humans through the ages. Many mummified animals have been found buried in Egyptian tombs or remains found in special pet cemeteries along the Nile. Other societies, too, honored their deceased companion animals in many ways, as people still do today. Pet burial customs give people the opportunity to express their emotional attachment to their pets and allow them to complete the process of grieving.

  1. Backyard Burial

    • Many people consider burying a deceased pet in their back yard, often under a favorite tree or bush. This custom is more common for smaller pets, such as a bird, guinea pig or hamster. Check local community zoning laws when considering a backyard burial for pets, especially for larger pets like cats or dogs. This custom is also common when cost is an issue.

    Cremation

    • Ashes can be buried under a favorite tree.

      Cremation is another common pet burial custom. Most veterinarians and Pet Humane Societies offer this service. The ashes can be returned to the family in an urn and can be either scattered in a favorite spot, buried under a favorite tree or kept with the family. Cremation is often considered a good option when a family may not be in the same location permanently.

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    Burial in a Pet Cemetery

    • Many Pet Humane Societies have cemetery plots specifically designed for deceased pets. Many families opt for this burial custom when deciding on the final resting place for their pet. This custom works well for most people, since it guarantees that the pet's remains will not be moved and the family can visit the plot at any time.

    Customs in Other Lands

    • In one area of India, pets are wrapped in white cloths and given a ritualized burial or cremation by Hindu or Buddhist priests. Those who can pay for this service do so, while for those who can't, the services are offered for free. This custom is carried out in Bodh Gaya in Bihar India and is the first ritual of this kind in that country.