Question 1

What happens during the water cremation process?

Accepted Answer

The deceased is respectfully placed in a stainless steel basket that is placed in a sealed stainless steel vessel.  A combination of 95% water, 5% alkali, temperature (200-300F), and gentle motion are used to accelerate the natural process of tissue decomposition.  All organic material is reduced to its most basic building blocks with no DNA or RNA remaining.  The sterile processed water is released for recycling and the inorganic bone minerals remain in the stainless steel basket.  The bone minerals are processed into powder and returned to the family.  This process is also known as alkaline hydrolysis.

Question 2

Are the alkalis used in this process safe for the environment?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  The water cremation process uses 95% water and 5% alkali.  The alkali is safe to handle with standard personal protective equipment.  These are the same alkalis used in common household products like cosmetics, body washes, and food preparation.  When the process completes the alkali has been completely neutralized and is no longer present in the water solution.

Question 3

Are the powdered ashes safe to handle?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  The cremated remains are 100% pathogen and disease free and safe to handle.  The cremated remains are bone mineral made of calcium phosphate that will keep in an urn or may be buried or scattered in a special place.

Question 4

How long has the process been around?

Accepted Answer

The technology of water cremation has been in use by universities and the scientific industry for over 25 years.  It has been used for the final disposition of human bodies donated to medical science since 1995.  The first pet water cremation facility was opened in 2007, and the first funeral home to use the technology was in 2011.

Question 5

What if my veterinarian does not offer aquamation?

Accepted Answer

If your vet does not currently offer aquamation as an aftercare option you can request it directly from them or have them contact us. You are also welcome to contact us directly at 424-389-1828 or info@southbaypetaquamation.com to discuss aftercare options.

Question 6

What is the difference between cremation and aquamation?

Accepted Answer

Cremation uses fire and is an oxidative process, while aquamation is using water and is a reductive process. Aquamation is essentially an accelerated process of what takes place during the natural process of decomposition.

Question 7

How can I be sure I am getting my pet’s ashes returned?

Accepted Answer

When we receive your pet, we give them a stainless steel identification tag that remains with them during the entire process to ensure that we return them to you.

Question 8

What should I do if my pet dies at home?

Accepted Answer

The most important thing to remember when a pet passes at home is to keep their body as cool and dry as possible and away from other pets.
As soon as possible, following the passing of your pet, it’s best to place pee pads, old towels/blankets, or plastic under the pet’s head and rear end as they may begin losing fluids.
It is okay to wrap the body in the pet’s favorite blanket or place them in their bed.
If your pet passes outside our normal business hours, there is little risk to keeping the body for up to 24 hours in your home if your companion is kept cool and dry.

Question 9

Can my pet's favorite toy or blanket be aquamated with my pet?

Accepted Answer

Aquamation is only an acceleration of what Mother Nature does, and as a result, only 100% organic items can be included in the actual process — special food treats, flowers, etc. are all fine. We suggest that toys or pieces of a favorite blanket be placed in the urn. We are also happy to keep toys or blankets with your pet until the actual process. We will then return them to you if previously requested.

Question 10

What is the difference between individual and communal aquamation?

Accepted Answer

With individual aquamation, your pet is processed alone and the ashes are returned to you. With communal aquamation, pets are processed together and ashes are not returned separately.

Question 11

Do you offer in-home euthanasia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer in-home euthanasia by appointment. We can also help with aftercare right away after your pet passes.

Question 12

How do I arrange pet pickup or facility drop-off?

Accepted Answer

Contact us any time. We offer 24/7 pickup, with most requests handled within 1 to 6 hours. You can also schedule a convenient facility drop-off time.

Question 13

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Question 14

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We provide service in Los Angeles and Orange County. Free pickup is available in South Bay and the surrounding area.

Question 15

What pets do you accept for aquamation?

Accepted Answer

We provide water cremation for dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and small exotic animals. If you are not sure about your pet, contact us and we will help.

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South Bay Pet Aquamation

Open 24/7 by appointment

Frequently Asked Questions