When you lose a pet, you want their goodbye to feel gentle. Many families ask us, what is pet aquamation, and is it right for us? At L.E.A.S.H., we offer this calm, water-based alternative to flame cremation to families across the Phoenix area.
This guide answers “what is pet aquamation?” in plain language, so you can decide what feels right for your family.
Table of Contents
What Is Pet Aquamation?
What is pet aquamation? It is also called water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis. Instead of fire, your pet rests in a stainless steel chamber with gently flowing warm water and natural alkaline minerals.
It is the same natural process that happens after a burial, just in hours instead of years. What remains are your pet’s bones, which are dried and softly reduced to a fine white powder. These are your pet’s ashes, returned to you.
How Aquamation Works With L.E.A.S.H.
1. We Come to You, Day or Night
Call us any time, 24/7. A Retrieval Specialist comes to your home or veterinary clinic, usually within one hour in central Phoenix. You never have to lift or transport your pet yourself.
2. Your Pet Receives an ID Tag
Before we leave your home, your pet is given an ID tag. It stays with them through every step, so you can be confident the ashes you receive are your pet’s.
3. Keepsakes Are Made First
If your package includes them, a clay paw print and a clipping of fur are carefully collected before the aquamation begins.
4. The Gentle Water Process
Your pet is cared for with warm water and alkaline minerals. There is no flame and no smoke.
5. Hand-Delivered Back Home
With our private packages, your pet’s ashes and keepsakes are hand-delivered to your door. If you need your pet home sooner, ask about our Expedited Services.
Aquamation vs. Flame Cremation
Both are respectful choices. If you are still asking what is pet aquamation compared with flame cremation, here is a simple side-by-side.
| Pet Aquamation | Flame Cremation | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Warm water and alkaline minerals | High heat and flame |
| Energy use | About 90% less energy (industry estimate) | Fuel-fired, very high heat |
| Smoke | None | Yes |
| Ashes returned | Up to about 20% more | Standard amount |
| Look of the ashes | Soft, fine and white | Coarser, often gray |
| Time | Takes longer (many hours) | Faster (a few hours) |
Helpful tip: Because aquamation returns more ashes, you may need a slightly larger urn. We are happy to help you choose one.
What Pet Aquamation Costs
Pet aquamation at L.E.A.S.H. starts at $250. Private packages return your pet’s ashes to you. A communal option, where ashes are not returned, is also available.
Pickup is included within 35 miles of our Phoenix office. For your exact price, please call us at (602) 802-4040. See all options on our Pet Aquamation Services page.
Caring for Every Kind of Companion
Aquamation is available for dogs, cats and exotic pets, including birds, reptiles, rabbits and other small companions. L.E.A.S.H. serves families across Maricopa, Pinal, Pima and Yavapai counties.
If your pet has just passed, our guide on what to do if your pet passes away at home walks you through the first steps.
Is aquamation the same as cremation?
Aquamation is a form of cremation that uses warm water and alkaline minerals instead of flame. Like flame cremation, your pet’s ashes are returned to you, usually in a larger amount and with a softer, whiter appearance.
Will I receive only my pet’s ashes?
Yes, with a private aquamation package. Your pet receives an ID tag at pickup that stays with them through every step. Our Quartz package is communal, so ashes are not returned.
How long does aquamation take?
Aquamation takes longer than flame cremation. When your pet comes home depends on the package you choose. If you need your pet back sooner, ask about our Expedited Services.
Is aquamation better for the environment?
Aquamation uses no flame and produces no smoke. Industry estimates say it uses about 90% less energy than flame cremation.
Can you pick up my pet at night in Phoenix?
Yes. L.E.A.S.H. is open 24/7, including nights, weekends and holidays. Call (602) 802-4040 and a Retrieval Specialist will come to your home.
Still wondering what is pet aquamation like for your family? We are here for you, any hour. Call L.E.A.S.H. Pet & Exotic Animal Mortuary at (602) 802-4040.