Saying goodbye to a much loved pet is among life’s hardest moments. At Sunset Vet Care, we try to make each step gentle, clear, and personal. That includes helping you choose how to care for your pet’s remains. Our team offers two respectful aftercare options: aquamation and traditional cremation. Both honour your pet with care and dignity.
This guide explains how each option works, how they differ, and what to expect with our service. You will also find simple points to help you decide what feels right for your family. If you need more detail, a vet on our team is ready to talk through your wishes.
Aquamation vs cremation at a glance
Both options return your pet’s ashes with respect. The main differences sit in the process, energy use, and the look of the ashes.
Environmental considerations
Aquamation uses warm water and alkalis, with no airborne emissions. Energy use is lower than heat based methods. Many families who value an eco friendly choice find this reassuring.
Modern cremation units are designed for efficiency and controlled emissions. Providers follow strict processes to reduce impact.
Gentleness of the process
Aquamation is a soft, natural process. It mirrors how nature breaks things down over time, only in a clean, carefully managed setting.
Cremation is a long standing, respectful practice carried out with care and attention to your pet’s dignity.
Ashes returned
Aquamation often returns a slightly larger amount of lighter coloured ashes. Many people find them easy to handle or scatter.
Cremation produces the familiar ash appearance that many families know and expect.
Understanding each option
Aquamation (water based cremation)
Your pet rests in a stainless steel vessel filled with warm water and natural alkalis. Gentle circulation completes the process over several hours. Metal items are removed and cared for as requested. The remaining mineral ash is dried, then placed in a simple urn or scatter box for you. Many families value the lighter colour and slightly larger volume of ashes.
Traditional cremation
Your pet is placed in a dedicated chamber where carefully controlled heat returns the body to ash. Metal items are removed and cared for as requested. The ashes are refined to a fine, familiar texture, then placed in a simple urn or scatter box. Many families choose cremation for its familiarity and wide availability.
What to expect with Sunset Vet Care
We aim to keep each step clear and gentle.
- We talk with you about your wishes and answer questions.
- You choose aquamation or cremation, and whether you would like ashes returned.
- We arrange respectful transport and maintain identification throughout.
- Your pet is cared for by trusted providers who share our standards.
- We keep you updated and return ashes to your home with a simple keepsake.
Next steps for aftercare
There is no right or wrong choice here. Only the option that feels most comforting for you and your family. Whether you choose aquamation or cremation, your pet receives the same care, respect, and love.
If you feel unsure, we are here to help you talk it through. A short call can ease the load and bring clarity. When you feel ready, reach out to our team, read about pet cremation options, or request a quality of life assessment.
If you’re planning ahead, see our in home dog euthanasia and cat euthanasia guides. We will meet you where you are, and support you through each step.
