How Aquamation Works
Understanding the gentle, water-based process that honors your pet while protecting our planet.
How aquamation works · 1 min 12 sec · captions included
The Aquamation Process
The simple version
Aquamation is a water-based form of cremation. Your pet is placed in a stainless steel chamber with warm water and alkali. At the end, the mineral remains are prepared and returned to you according to the service tier you selected.
A Water-Based Process
Unlike flame cremation, aquamation does not use a combustion burner. Ondara's PET-550 uses electricity, water, alkaline chemistry, a controlled vent connection, and sanitary-sewer discharge that must follow the facility's approved requirements.
The mineral remains are carefully dried and prepared before they are returned to the family.
Where your pet is, at every step · 1 min 7 sec · captions included
Your Journey With Us
Every step designed with care and transparency
Initial Contact
Join the opening update list or contact us directly. Online arrangements are expected to open early 2027, and we can still answer questions about service tiers and options before launch.
Pickup or Drop-off
Schedule a convenient pickup time within our 50-mile service area, or arrange drop-off at your veterinary clinic or our facility by appointment during posted hours.
Identification & Tracking
Upon arrival, your pet receives two forms of identification: a metal tag that stays physically attached throughout the process, plus a QR code and barcode for digital tracking. This dual-ID system ensures complete chain-of-custody documentation with timestamps and staff verification at every step.
Aquamation Process
The water-based aquamation step is handled slowly and respectfully. The procedure typically takes 18-20 hours.
Careful Preparation
For Private and Individually-Partitioned Aquamation, the ashes are carefully prepared and placed in a biodegradable urn. Memorial items like paw prints are created with care.
Return to You
Choose from pickup, delivery, or mailing options. We will let you know when your pet's ashes are ready, typically within 7-14 business days.
A Private Farewell
A moment to say goodbye—on your terms, in your own way.
Your Private Farewell Room
Before the aquamation process begins, families are welcome to spend time in our private farewell room, a quiet, comfortable space designed for one purpose: giving you the chance to say goodbye to your pet without being hurried.
A Symbolic Goodbye
Many families choose to bring a favorite toy, a letter, or flowers. Some simply sit quietly. There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye. We provide a calm, unhurried environment where you can honor your bond however feels right to you.
Witness the Beginning
For families who wish, you may be present as our team begins the aquamation step in the chamber. This is a moment of trust—knowing exactly how the process begins, seeing the care firsthand, and finding peace in the transparency we promise.
A private viewing or witnessing the start of the process is an optional add-on, available with every service tier and priced on our pricing page. Let us know when arranging services.
Tours once we open
Our building is still under construction, so we can't walk you through it yet. Once we open in early 2027, families are welcome to tour before making any decisions. Until then, we're glad to answer any question by phone.
Ask a QuestionHave a question about safety, identification, or what each tier includes? Our frequently asked questions cover the ones families ask most.
Want to Know When We Open?
We're here to support you with compassionate care and complete transparency. View our pet cremation pricing or join the opening update list.