Snake cadaver discovery prompts 'recycling' warning
The discovery of a dead snake at a recycling centre in Essex has prompted leading pet crematorium CPC to provide public guidance regarding the options available to owners facing the demise of a pet.
“Veterinary practices will know that many people share a deep bond with their pet. Losing a companion animal can be very difficult – all the more so when it comes to deciding what to do when the time comes to say the final farewell,” commented CPC director, Duncan Francis. “To support veterinary work in this area, CPC sets out the facts regarding some of the options available, including legal and practical considerations.”
He added: “Choice can be determined by whether an animal dies at home or in practice – the legalities differ according to the animal and circumstances, so we would always urge owners to seek due professional advice from their vet before making a decision.”
Pet cremation
Pet cremations for animals of all types and sizes can be arranged via a vet or directly in person. Many owners find particular comfort and reassurance in bringing their pet themselves for cremation.
Accredited and approved pet cremation companies such as CPC understand the legal requirements facing vets. Such crematoriums will typically offer specialist individual and communal services, with various sensitive and well thought-out options for clients – including the chance to attend the cremation service, choice of urn or casket, and the secure return of pet ashes. Gardens of remembrance are available at some facilities, such as CPC’s tranquil setting on the Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire border.
Home burial
Although most people choose to have their pet cremated, it is not against the law to bury a pet at home, according to the Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Burial of pet animals is permitted under the EU Animal By-Product Regulation 2005. These define ‘pets’ as domestic animals most commonly owned – including cats, dogs and rabbits.
Other animals – including sheep, cattle, pigs, goats and poultry – are considered ‘normal’ farm species. Under the regulations, these cannot be buried at home and their remains must be disposed of safely and legally – for example by an approved, accredited route such as cremation.
Horses fall under the jurisdiction of the Animal By-Product Regulations and can be cremated, using the service of a pet crematorium such as CPC, or disposed of by the knackerman or hunt kennel in most cases. There may be special dispensations from the local authority to bury the horse on the owner’s land.
However before burying a pet at home, CPC recommends that pet owners contact their local authority, DEFRA, and the Environment Agency for the most up-to-date advice.
To find out more about CPC’s compassionate pet cremation service, please call us on 01763 207750, email info@cpccares.com or visit www.cpccares.com
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
Telephone: 0845 933 5577
Web: www.defra.gov.uk
Email: helpline@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Environment Agency
Telephone: 0870 850 6506
Web: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
