Backyard Pet Burial Guidelines
- Laws and regulations
- Depth of grave and location
- Burial practices
Pet Cremation Pros and Cons
- Comparison of burial and cremation
- Environmental considerations
- Sentimental value
Delaying Pet Burial
- Timing considerations
- Rigor mortis and burial
In the UK, dogs can be buried in a backyard if the owner lives on the property. The grave must be at least two feet deep in heavy soil or three feet in lighter soil. Some cities have regulations regarding depth and location. Even if unable to bury your pet, you can create a meaningful memorial. Laws differ between countries, states, and cities regarding pet burial. Some have rules about depth and materials buried due to health and environmental concerns.
Options for carcass disposal include burial, incineration, and composting. Burial is common but regulations govern it. Dig at least four feet to prevent disturbance. Lower the body gently. Burying with toys can comfort. So burial may be prohibited, resulting in penalties. But local laws differ on rules.
When burying your dog, make the grave three feet deep in a location that won’t erode or become disturbed. Allow others to say goodbye first since rigor mortis sets in within three hours. The body can go in a biodegradable container if desired. Cover with lime then earth. Keep the site tidy and visit often. The dog can’t be buried in public areas. Vets may not release remains of dogs that had chemotherapy for home burial. Pet cemeteries offer burial services.
In Ohio, many cities don’t allow pet burial due to health and environmental concerns. Pet owners should bury animals below two feet, above the water table. Some businesses may turn owners away even if laws allow backyard burial.
Backyard burial leaves you vulnerable if you move or a natural disaster happens. You may wish to place a marker. If unable to purchase a plot, pet cremation services may be the best option. Cremation eliminates the need for burial and reduces environmental impact. But some prefer traditional burial because it’s more concrete.
It is a good idea to wait 2-3 hours after death before burying your pet, to be sure of their demise. Once rigor mortis has set in you can go ahead with the burial. Sometimes the burial can’t take place right away. Maybe you are waiting for a family member to come home or for a coffin to arrive.