How to Dig a Grave for a Pet

Vinnie Vega is a Great Dane. He's also mine. And like his canine brethren, he's enormous. Standing on his hind legs, he's about six feet and he weighs 175 pounds. But like all Great Danes before and after, Vinnie will someday die. On this tragic day, I'll undoubtedly be too distraught to make arrangements for his burial. On option would be giving his carcass to a pet cemetery, but they often use what's called "communal plots." This sounds like a euphemism for "mass grave," and that's just depressing. That's why I'm learning how to dig Vinnie's grave in my backyard. And here's what I've learned...

Things You'll Need

  • Shovel
  • Pix Axe
  • Coffin
  • Measuring Stick
  • Wooden Stakes
  • Something Dead
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Instructions

  1. How to dig a grave for a pet.

    • 1

      Pick your location. The most important thing when digging a grave is to make sure the soil is soft enough to break through with a shovel or pick axe. It's also important to know if any pipes or gas lines run beneath the spot of internment. You can obtain this information by calling city hall.

    • 2

      Lay the coffin down and demarcate the area with four wooden stakes. This will ensure you don't dig too much or too little. (Note: If you're not using a coffin of some sort, many cities require you bury an animal 3 feet or deeper. This thwarts scavengers from digging up the carcass and feasting. For larger animals, it's important to dig a deeper hole.)

    • 3

      Dig. It's time to roll up your tear soaked sleeves, pick up your pick axe, loosen the earth and dig in with your shovel. When complete, place the coffin in the hole and use the measuring stick to ensure at least two feet of distance is between the coffin and the top of the hole.

    • 4

      Fill the hole. Pat it down tightly. Lay some flowers. Say some kind words. Cry. And get another pet.