How Long Does Pet Aquamation Take?
When a pet passes, families look for a respectful and natural way to handle the remains. Water-based pet cremation in Atlanta, GA, replaces fire with warm water and alkaline solutions to return the body to its natural elements. This process, known as aquamation, follows the same chemical principles found in nature but occurs in a controlled and sanitary chamber.
Once families understand what aquamation is and its benefits, they often ask, “How long does aquamation take?” The answer depends on equipment settings, water temperature, and drying time after the procedure.
What Is Pet Aquamation?
Pet aquamation is an eco-friendly cremation method that uses warm water and alkali instead of fire to break down the body naturally. The process dissolves soft tissue and leaves clean bone minerals behind. After the process finishes, technicians turn the minerals into a white powder.
Families who prefer cremation alternatives choose aquamation because it eliminates smoke, reduces fuel consumption, and produces pure ashes.
The Environmental Problem With Traditional Cremation
Traditional cremation burns fossil fuels at extremely high temperatures and releases carbon dioxide and fine particles into the atmosphere. Each cycle consumes large amounts of energy and contributes to pollution.
Aquamation avoids these issues by operating at a lower temperature and using less energy. Although the duration of aquamation is longer than flame cremation, it reduces environmental impact through lower energy use and cleaner operation. By selecting aquamation, families reduce their carbon footprint while honoring their pets responsibly.
How Long Does Aquamation Take?
After the euthanasia or natural death of a pet, families may wonder, “How long does aquamation take?” The process varies based on temperature and system design. When the chamber operates at a higher temperature, the alkaline hydrolysis cycle completes in about six to eight hours. At lower heat, it can take up to 20 hours. Lower temperatures provide a slower and gentler breakdown that mimics natural decomposition.
When the cycle finishes, technicians remove the bone minerals, rinse them, and begin the drying phase. Drying usually lasts 24 to 72 hours, depending on air movement. After technicians process and package the ashes, families receive them within 10 to 14 days.
This period includes quality checks, labeling, and preparation for return. Each step takes deliberate care to protect the pet’s identity and confirm that every trace returned belongs to the right pet.
The Complete Water Cremation Procedure
Families often want to understand the water cremation procedure before making a decision. The process works through three careful stages that maintain order and dignity from start to finish.
Preparation of the Pet
The technician places the pet’s body in a stainless steel chamber and adds water mixed with an alkali. The chamber seals tightly and fills to the correct level. Controlled temperature and pressure create the environment that begins the breakdown process.
Circulation and Heating
The chamber warms to a specific temperature while the solution circulates continuously. This movement maintains even contact across the body and supports proper decomposition time. Over several hours, the tissues dissolve completely, leaving only soft bone minerals.
Processing and Return of Cremains
When the cycle ends, technicians drain the liquid and rinse the bones with clean water. The bones dry completely before being processed into a fine, uniform powder.
The remaining liquid is sterile and enters the wastewater system for safe treatment. Families receive the ashes in a labeled container prepared for pickup or delivery.
Other Reasons To Consider Aquamation Over Cremation
Understanding the answer to the question, “How long does aquamation take?” shows that the process takes longer for good reason, but time is only part of why many choose this process. Aquamation uses that extended period to maintain control through every stage and to produce cleaner ashes with no carbon from burning fuel.
Each step results in a consistent and accurate outcome that mirrors natural decomposition instead of high-heat combustion. The method also reduces energy use and waste, making it a practical and environmentally responsible choice for families who want to honor their pet’s memory in a progressive way.
Call Heavenly Paws Pet Aquamation To Learn More About Aquamation
Heavenly Paws Pet Aquamation supports families through every stage of their pet’s final care.
They approach each case with professionalism and compassion to make the process as smooth as possible after the death of a pet. Still asking yourself, “How long does aquamation take?” Call Heavenly Paws Pet Aquamation at 678-995-9520 to learn more about how this natural method provides a gentler and more responsible way to honor your beloved companion.
