Help center
FAQ.
Out of all the frequently asked questions we receive, understanding aqua cremation is the most common. There aren’t many resources online when it comes to pet aftercare hence, we created this frequently asked questions page.
Here you can learn about the difference between Flame & Aqua cremation. You will also learn about your pet’s ash remains and how our process is safer for you and the environment.
Popular questions
The most important thing to do when a pet passes at home is to keep their body as cool and dry as possible and away from other pets.
A list of things to consider and do:
Step 1: As soon as possible, place pee pads, old towels/blankets, or plastic under the pet’s head and rear end as they may begin excreting fluids.
Step 2: Gently move your pet into a curled position, as if it were sleeping (front and back legs tucked towards their body).
Step 3: The death of your pet is not a task to be handled alone, reach out for help and speak to us. We will be able to advise on the appropriate steps and arrangements available.
Whether you choose to work with another funeral provider, we are still here to help.
Step 4: Spend time and take the time your need with your pet while waiting for help to arrive.
It is best to make arrangements as soon as possible as decomposition rapidly takes place upon death, especially in Singapore due to our climate.
Pick up typical occurs the same day we receive the call from you from either your veterinary clinic or home.
Unfortunately, due to governing restrictions, only authorised personnel from our team can transport your pet into our building and facility. Please do speak to us before arranging for anything. If in doubt, you can reach out to us at 8866 7374.
Packages
eco & “cremation only” (7-10days)
standard/large (3-5 days)
Because we conduct our aqua cremation services as eco-consciously as possible, it takes a bit more time than conventional cremation.
We are pet owners and advocates ourselves, and the returning of the correct remains is something we take very seriously, hence the strict processes in place.
Information is automatically entered into our database. The pet is also given a coded tag that follows your pet throughout (This tag never leaves your pet), which includes all the most important information. When the pet is checked into our facility, the information is double-checked.
Before the process begins, the information is checked again. Pets are completely segregated by stainless steel partitions in the actual process, ensuring proper separation of the remains.
When removed from the process, the pet is again checked. The bones are processed individually and one pet at a time, again ensuring the integrity of the remains. Our system is guaranteed to make sure you get the proper remains.
Read up on our 7 step Identification process here!
The water is treated at a licensed NEA treatment facility, just as it would be for the embalming process of humans. The alkaline hydrolysis process produces a completely sterile solution of amino acids, sugars, nutrients, salts, and soap in a water solution. These are the by-products of natural decomposition, also a great source of food for plants.
We are in the midst of discussions with authorities to make better use for the water produced, hopefully in time to come we will be able to repurpose the highly nutritious effluent as an alternative way for fertilising crops and plants. Our way to integrate a zero waste approach in the service we provide, returning life to mother nature.
You may send these items to accompany your pet right up till the Aqua Cremation process.
We will safekeep these items and return them to you the same time we return your pet ashes back to you. This is because all other items may affect the nature of the aqua cremation process.
Flame cremation uses fossil fuels and emits carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, just Singapore alone 82% of deaths (People) 100% (Pets) are cremated in Singapore each year.
In a macro perspective that is a huge amount of carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere worldwide, contributing to the extreme weather / environmental disasters everyone around the world is facing.
Aqua Cremation is a greener cremation option because it does not have any harmful emissions entering the atmosphere (absence of burning) and energy (90% less) for every person who chooses it.
Each person who chooses Aqua Cremation for their pets prevents the emissions of large amounts of greenhouse gases and energy required for a 800 km road trip.
Flame cremating one corpse requires requires temperatures of 800-1800 degrees celcius maintained for a period of 2-4 hours.
Water usage for two average sized golden retrievers is 606 litres which is about the average household water usage for a household of 4 in singapore daily (Based on 2017 statistics on water usage per person in Singapore) not including any garden watering, leaky faucets or toilets etc.
To put it into perspective, water in a standard fish tank you see in restaurants/homes about 5-6ft in length holds just about the same amount.
To further our green initiatives, we are committed to finding means and ways for this “used water” to return it back into the eco-system or be utilised for other purposeful means.
We do offer families / clients private cremation services for pet (a single pet per cremation) on case-by-case basis. You may reach out to us, and we will be able to provide appropriate advice.
Our commitment is to keep this option available and open to all families, as each cremation process takes 24 hours. We want to ensure that this service is not limited to just a few in Singapore. Our primary focus is to strike a balance, providing cost-efficient prices while ensuring accessibility to the wider community.
No! the flameless cremation process uses a catalyst called alkali, which is the chemical opposite of an acid.
It is a common misconception that the Alkali performs the breakdown. However it is actually the water that performs the breakdown, like how water plays an important part In natural decomposition.
After all, all living organisms are made out of water.
(A combination of Sodium and Potassium Hydroxide – Alkalis used in this process are gentle and commonly found in cosmetic products, body washes and even food preparation)
No! The modern technology is well respected and backed by numerous research and studies and has been in use by universities and the scientific industries for over 25 years! It has been used for the final disposition of human bodies donated to medical science since 1995.
There are countless of resources and articles published online regarding this process used all around the world.
Aqua Cremation is also known as Aquamation/Water Cremation and scientifically “Alkaline Hydrolysis“.
Check out BBC’s article regarding this process here!
Yes, in fact about 20-30% more ashes than one would receive from a flame cremation.
In Singapore and other parts of the world, it is customary to process the minerals into a powder(Ash) for placement in an urn. This is the same processing step that is performed for the remains that result from flame cremation.
Ashes from Aqua Cremation can be used for any type of memorialisation, such as cremation jewelry, memory glass, clay memorials, tree urns, man made diamonds, etc.
This is similar to how flame cremation works, except the bony remains are discoloured and charred by the time they come out of the furnace.
Some cultures wish to keep the mineral remains as whole as possible for ceremonial burial, and because Aqua Cremation is so gentle to the remains, it is the ideal process for this purpose.
Yes, the bone remains are 100% safe, pathogen and disease free. Safer then our own fecal matter.
The ashes that are returned to families is simply bone minerals, also known as calcium phosphate – the same as what you get with flame-based cremation.
The ashes can be kept in an urn, buried, or scattered in a designated place dependent on what you choose to do.
Through this process of Aqua Cremation / Alkaline Hydrolysis, research has shown that this process destroys even the hardest to kill pathogens, such as prions and infectious RNA and leaves the byproduct of liquid and bone completely sterile. (if your pet had chemotherapy, the process would render any cytotoxic agents – chemotherapy drugs harmless.)
Yes, and you will recieve a substantial amount of pet ash back! Check out our eco-mini package for small pets like fishes and rodents here.
This process is delicate and will not vaporise bones and disperse small particles into the atmosphere resulting in loss of bones/ashes.
This is because it operates at a low temperature (Below 100°C) compared to the harshness and heat from flame cremation (Up to 980 °C).
It also does not emit any particulate out into the atmosphere as there are no emissions from Aqua Cremation.
*Do note that bones are very brittle and may breakdown upon touch.
For Cremation Only & Service Packages (consisting of a funeral visitation/memorial service). All pets are cremated privately in their own chamber. With the help of specially fabricated dividers, allowing water to pass through. Leaving behind only purer bone/ash remains.
Any foreign implants/objects that may be found in your pet will be separated and returned to you. This is only possible because of its gentle approach and process – preventing any mixture of foreign objects or other pets with your pet’s ashes.
The cost for conventional death care of pets can vary widely depending on the factors such as size of pet, specific service, rituals, location and individual preferences.
The cost of a pet funeral with cremation can range anywhere between $300 and upwards of $1000.
While Aqua Cremation is innovative and new, we aim to keep cost comparable to other aftercare options. Our prices well within the industry standards.
Packages we offer include the care and guidance from the time of death until the return of ashes in an urn / sea scatter.
All our packages offered are transparent in pricing and will cover families from start to end. We strive to be straightforward about clarity in our pricing and services so you are informed and know what to expect.
Learn more about our services here and find a list of our current / competitive pricings here.
We are committed to making eco-death care accessible to as many people as possible.
The process takes only a day (24 hours) compared to conventional burial (5-25 years).
Bones retrieved are placed to dry for another 1-2 full days, before the processing to ash.
Lastly, the ash/bones will be placed into an urn before returning to families.
“cremation only” & “eco” packages – 7 to 10 days
An Eco-conscious package for families; pet’s will be scheduled in for cremation based on the availability of slots as the process only occurs once a day with ashes returned within our commitment of 7-10 days.
“standard” packages – 3 to 5 days
The package with the quickest turn around time for the return of ashes is 3-5 days (standard packages). A cremation usually done within the day or the following upon receiving the pet at our facility,
The scheduled cremation for “standard” packages will take place within 1-2 days from the day of farewell/pick-up of pet.
Timeline of process from Aqua Cremation:
- Process – 1 day
- Drying of Bones – 1 – 2 day
- Packing & Processing of bones to ash – 1 day
- Delivery arrangements thereafter – within the 3-5 day commitment
Prior to the schedule of the cremation pets take their rest in our human grade mortuary chiller (preservation purposes).
Group / Communal pet cremation involves the dignified cremation of the remains of multiple animals simultaneously in the same chamber, fostering a sense of community in their final journey.
Choosing group cremation is an excellent option if you prefer not to receive the individual ashes back. This compassionate approach offers peace of mind, ensuring that your beloved pet is honoured in the company of other cherished companions.
After the group cremation is done, we scatter the ashes respectfully at sea with fresh flowers to honour the beloved pets at their final resting ground.
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Memorial Services
Definitely, a memorial service is included in all our packages. We believe that it is essential. prior to the cremation, a funeral/memorial service and or visitation with the deceased present may take place at our funeral home at pre-booked/scheduled timings (12pm – 7pm daily).
Yes we do, funerals are incredibly personal so everything can be built around your needs.
Please do let us know if you have any special requests and we’ll do our best to help. We’ll listen to you and let you choose the level of support you would like.
We’re here for you, before, during and after the funeral, so please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.
*do be patient with us, as a small startup we are looking to expand our service offerings. With the current limitations to our team we may have to propose other solutions and trustworthy service providers.
Our services are full and complete : includes the pickup of your pet, return of ashes, an urn along with a send off at our funeral home at a schedule time of convenience.
Requests for additional services & products such as funeral rites, plantable / biodegradable, or bespoke urns are available as well at additional costs, with possible lead time as all items are many of the items are made to order.
Journey of Pet
There is little possibility of bones and ashes commingling from other pets that have gone through or are going through the Aqua Cremation process.
As water passes through perforated holes that separate each pet from one chamber to another. Metal implants and inorganic materials will remain whole and separated from bone material and not commingle. (medical implants or inorganic items found will be returned along with ashes to families)
Commingling of ash from Flame Crematoriums on the other hand is inevitable due to the way it is built – it is impossible to clean every single bit of ash out as some particles get stuck in crevices of fire resistant bricks of a furnace.
Items place together in the flame crematoriums such as clothes, coffins, beds, etc. will also be combined/fused together and will be hard to separate reducing the purity of one’s pet ashes.
We can either arrange for a complimentary drop-off service for ash or invite you down to our space to personally take the urn home.
We also provide sea scatter services for pets (private chartered / or a scattering ceremony on your behalf)
Absolutely. we provide an open door policy for any member of the public on an appointment basis to come and visit us to better understand the process better or to simply ease your mind.
This is one of the 250 code of ethics and standards we incorporate into our services as an IAOPCC member (International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories).
We use a custom-designed mortuary cold system whereby pets are stored, similar to those used for humans.
Other Questions
Being locally owned and operated, while working with local artisans to strengthen our local community, is what makes us a responsible and reliable provider for you.
Our attention to local needs, customs and the environment signifies our commitment to creating a sustainable and sensitive service for pet parents in Singapore.
After all, we love Singapore, our little red dot! We would want to see it thrive and survive for the generations to come.
First, you need to know the internal dimensions and volume of the urn.
The industry rule of thumb is that you will need: 21.4 cubic cm of urn volume / 0.5 kg weight of pet.
However due to how gentle the water cremation process is, families should expect to receive 20-30% more ashes.
Dependent on each individual pet, the bone structures/density in each animal and breed may differ.
To be absolutely certain, you can consider waiting until you have your pet’s ashes.
The burial of animals and pets in public places is illegal in Singapore. This act was established in 1987.
Owners of private properties may choose to bury their pets within their stipulated compound provided it does not pose as a public health hazard.
You may wish to speak to a professional to advise you on a suitable area (away from underground electrical cables, gas/water pipes which might be dangerous if impacted).
The burial plot has to be deep enough to deter the smell of a decomposing corpse and other wild animals.
More about Aqua Cremation
Aqua cremation is a method of final disposition that is available for pet loved ones. The scientific name for this water-based process is alkaline hydrolysis. It is the same process that occurs as part of nature’s course when a body is laid to rest in the soil. A combination of gentle water flow, temperature, and alkalinity are used to accelerate the breakdown of organic materials.
They are grateful to have a choice for their pet’s final disposition
They prefer a gentle process that does not use fire or flame.
They prefer receiving 20-30% more of their loved ones’ ashes returned to the family.
It is a more gentle option than flame-based cremation.
They value the decreased environmental impact of the process.
With Aqua Cremation, there are no emissions of harmful greenhouse gases or mercury to the atmosphere. This process does not burn any fossil fuels. It is very energy efficient – greater than 90% energy savings compared to flame cremation, with 1/10th of the carbon footprint.
It involves a process of alkali, water and heat to speed up decomposition what takes mother nature years only takes us 18 hours.
A body is gently placed in a container that is then placed in a clean, stainless steel vessel. A combination of water flow, temperature and alkalinity are used to accelerate the natural process of tissue hydrolysis. At the end of the process, the body has been returned to its natural form, dissolved in the water. Remember, our bodies are 65% water to begin with! The only solid remains are the bones, which will be processed to its final form of ash.
What is left is the remaining sterile solution of amino acids, sugars, nutrients, salts, and soap in a water solution. These are the byproducts of natural composition which are in fact shown to improve the soil health, increase plant health and improve the environment where it is spread. We feel this allows our pets to further improve the world around us and increases the environmentally friendly nature of the process.
Yes! The alkalis used in this process are the same alkalis used in common cosmetic products, body washes, shaving creams, and even in food preparation!
At the end of the process, the chemical will be completely used and no longer remains in the water solution.
The process uses less water than a single Singapore household of 5 uses in one day.
This includes all of the water used for the process, along with the clean water rinsing of the final remains and vessel.
Yes, the metal will survive the process and can be recycled/returned to you if requested.
In other countries such as America where the process is used for humans, items such as metal implants, dental fillings, silicone breast implants and even gold teeth (Low Melting Point) is recovered and recycled due to the gentle process and low heat.
Metal implants recovered after Aqua Cremation
Yes, each pet is cremated individually, in their own private chamber.
With the advancement of technology and we are able to accelerating the reductive process similar to decomposition.
The whole process of Aqua Cremation only takes 20-24 hours to reduce one’s pet into bone remains.
An additional 1-2 days required will be the process of drying the bones before having it processed into ash form.
There are many reasons for this:
Not all animals are alike,
Bone Structure of Pet
Different breeds produce varying amount of bone /ash remains, even if they are similar in weight. An example, a Siamese cat will produce less ash than a Maine Coon cat.
Bone Density
Lower bone density results in less bone/ash remains. Lower bone density is also often found in older pets or in cases of illness and cancer.
Bone Colour
Bones from aqua cremation tend to appear lighter in colour however depending on the pigments in the animal hair and skin it can tint the bones a little green or tan.
While in flame based cremation you will often see charred and grey colour remains due to the nature of the oxidative process.
