How to Make a Pet Burial in the Backyard

No one wants to think about it, but sooner or later, you may have to bury your beloved pet in your back yard. Emotionally, this can be a very healthy way for you and your family to grieve the loss of your furred, feathered, or scaled family member. This is especially true if you have children in your family. It is legal in a lot of places to bury a pet on your own property, but you should check with your locality to make certain that is the case where you live.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Shovel
  • Box or coffin for your pet
  • Grave marker
  • Flowers
  • Your pet's favorite things (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the length, width, and height of the box into which you have put your pet's remains.

    • 2

      Dig a hole in your back yard that will fit that box. Dig to a depth of 2 to 3 feet plus the height of the box to ensure that wild animals do not dig up the grave.

    • 3

      Arrange a small ceremony with any family members and friends you wish to invite. Burial ceremonies can be as involved as you wish.

    • 4

      Lower your pet's casket into the ground carefully. Ask a friend or family member to help you if the pet was especially large.

    • 5

      Shovel the dirt you removed from the hole back over the casket. Tamp it down firmly with the shovel and your feet once all the dirt is back in place.

    • 6

      Place a grave marker over the site so you always remember where it is. Flowers can be added at this time. You may even prefer to plant perennial flowers over the grave as a memorial.