What Is Pet Aquamation?
Pet aquamation, also called alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a water-based alternative to traditional flame cremation.
It uses water, warmth, and alkalinity to accelerate a process that occurs naturally over time. The process leaves mineral remains that can be dried, processed, and returned to families when private service is selected.
How It Works
In aquamation, the pet is placed in specialized equipment designed for alkaline hydrolysis. A warm water and alkali solution circulates through the chamber over several hours.
The process breaks down organic tissue and leaves mineral bone material behind. That mineral material is then dried and processed into remains that can be placed in an urn or keepsake.
Exact cycle time, handling procedure, and return timeline depend on the equipment, provider, and service selected.
Why Families Consider Aquamation
- A water-based process. Some families prefer an option that does not use direct flame.
- Lower-impact design. Aquamation is commonly presented as a lower-emission alternative to flame cremation because it avoids direct combustion.
- Memorial continuity. Families may still choose urns, keepsakes, paw prints, and other memorial options.
- A modern aftercare option. For many families, aquamation offers a process that feels consistent with their values around care, transparency, and environmental consideration.
Environmental Considerations
Aquamation avoids direct flame combustion and is generally understood to use less energy than traditional flame cremation.
Actual environmental impact depends on equipment, energy source, water use, wastewater handling, and local treatment requirements. Nova Pet Aftercare will publish more specific information once equipment and operational systems are finalized.
Aquamation vs. Flame Cremation
| Attribute | Flame Cremation | Aquamation |
|---|---|---|
| Process | High heat and flame | Water, warmth, and alkalinity |
| Combustion | Yes | No direct flame combustion |
| Remains returned | Yes, for private service | Yes, for private service |
| Memorial options | Urns, keepsakes, paw prints | Urns, keepsakes, paw prints |
| Timing | Varies by provider | Varies by provider and equipment |
| Environmental profile | Uses flame-based combustion | Designed as a lower-combustion alternative |
Common Misconceptions
“You do not get remains back.”
For private aquamation, families can receive processed mineral remains for memorialization, similar to private cremation.
“It is not respectful.”
Respect depends on provider standards, not only the method used. Nova Pet Aftercare is being designed around clear handling procedures, careful documentation, and transparent communication.
“It uses harsh chemicals.”
Aquamation uses an alkaline solution as part of a controlled process. The solution and wastewater handling must be managed according to applicable regulations and local utility requirements.
“It is always more expensive.”
Pricing varies by provider, pet size, service type, and memorial options. Nova Pet Aftercare will publish pricing before accepting clients.
Want to be notified when we launch?
Join the Early Interest List