Pet Aquamation: Frequently Asked Questions

Pet aquamation is water-based aftercare performed after a pet has died. Water, warmth, and alkaline compounds break down soft tissues, leaving mineral bone material that is processed into the ashes returned to the family. Read how our aquamation service works.

Water cremation is a name used for aquamation, also called alkaline hydrolysis. The phrase helps describe an aftercare option that returns processed remains without using a flame-based process.

It is not the same as traditional flame cremation. Aquamation uses heated water and alkaline compounds; traditional cremation uses flame and high heat. Gentle Tide offers aquamation exclusively.

You may hear aquamation called “water cremation” or “flameless cremation.” Those names refer to aquamation, not to traditional flame cremation. Ask which process a provider will actually use. At Gentle Tide, the service is private pet aquamation only.

The main difference is the method: flame-based heat versus water-based alkaline hydrolysis. With any provider, also ask about individual care, identification, return of remains, and what the quoted price includes. See the comparison table.

The pet’s body undergoes alkaline hydrolysis using water, warmth, and alkaline compounds. The soft tissues break down, and the remaining bone minerals are dried and processed for return in an urn. Our process explanation provides more detail.

The process leaves a liquid solution as well as the bone minerals. Equipment manufacturer Bio-Response Solutions describes the liquid being handled through wastewater treatment. The arrangements for a particular facility depend on its equipment and operating requirements. Ask our team for the facility-specific details before making arrangements; the water is separate from the ashes returned in the urn. Read the manufacturer’s general explanation.

Yes. We arrange private aquamation for dogs. Tell us your dog’s approximate weight and whether stairs, a narrow entrance, or lifting assistance may affect pickup.

Yes. We arrange private aquamation for cats. You can discuss a carrier or bedding, keepsake preferences, and pickup from home or your veterinary practice.

Yes. Gentle Tide offers private aquamation, with your pet’s ashes returned in the urn included in your package. The ashes are processed from the remaining bone minerals. Keepsake options vary by package.

The equipment’s processing time and the time until your pet’s ashes are returned are different. Gentle Tide’s standard return is 5–7 business days; Diamond includes expedited 3-day service. We confirm pickup and return timing when you make arrangements. Read the aftercare timeline.

Our complete price table lists Gold, Platinum, and Diamond by pet weight. Every package includes pickup, private aquamation, an urn, and the return of ashes. Starting prices apply to pets up to 3 lbs, and prices rise by weight. For pets over 350 lbs, call for pricing and arrangements.

Your veterinary team can contact us to discuss it with your authorization. Ask staff to record that you want aquamation and confirm release arrangements before pickup. Our veterinary partner page and staff resources explain the details to coordinate.

A family may prefer a water-based process without flame while still receiving ashes in an urn. Others want to understand the available options before deciding. The choice is personal; we can explain aquamation and its practical arrangements without pressure.

Gentle Tide arranges private pet aquamation and pickup in Suffolk County, Long Island. Our service-area guide links to all ten townships. Call with the actual pickup address so we can confirm availability, including any ferry or restricted-access needs.

Yes. Aquamation is a water-based alternative to traditional flame cremation, with your pet’s ashes returned after private care. Gentle Tide does not offer flame cremation. Our pet cremation alternative page helps you decide whether aquamation meets your family’s needs.

Our phone is available 24/7, but pickup availability is confirmed individually. Same-day or next-day pickup may be possible. Hospital release times, travel, and island access affect the plan; call before arranging transportation yourself.

No. Gentle Tide does not perform euthanasia. We can help coordinate with independent veterinarians and discuss aftercare. Decisions about a living pet’s health should be made with your veterinarian.

Yes. You can discuss your preferences before a loss, or request a callback when you are ready. For time-sensitive pickup arrangements, please call 516-965-5426.