Top 50 How To Keep Wild Animals From Digging Up Buried Pets Quick Answer

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You will want to have a tall fence that has been buried 4 or 5 feet into the ground. This will make it even more difficult for digging or burrowing animals to reach your pet. There are even sprays or repellents you can buy and spray around the grave to repel the other animals.It takes an average of 6 months to 18 years for a buried dog to decompose fully. If a dog is exposed and not buried, it will decompose much more quickly. The speed at which a dog decomposes depends on how deep you buried him, the climate, and if his body is enclosed or exposed.Your dog should be buried in something that is breathable and biodegradable like a towel, blanket, wooden, wicker or cardboard coffin. Avoid making a casket out of anything plastic or that is sealed in an air-tight way. Do not bury your dog in a plastic bag or anything else that is non-breathable and non-biodegradable.

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How long does it take a buried dog to decompose?

It takes an average of 6 months to 18 years for a buried dog to decompose fully. If a dog is exposed and not buried, it will decompose much more quickly. The speed at which a dog decomposes depends on how deep you buried him, the climate, and if his body is enclosed or exposed.

What is the best thing to bury a dog in?

Your dog should be buried in something that is breathable and biodegradable like a towel, blanket, wooden, wicker or cardboard coffin. Avoid making a casket out of anything plastic or that is sealed in an air-tight way. Do not bury your dog in a plastic bag or anything else that is non-breathable and non-biodegradable.

Should I bury my cat in a box?

You can also bury your cat in something like a cardboard box. If your cat had a bed it loved, consider burying your cat in its bed. If you don’t need to use a container, you can always just wrap your cat in a towel prior to burial.

Why you shouldn’t bury your pet in the backyard?

Many people consider burying their pet in the backyard, but a backyard burial isn’t always the safest or most reliable option. It poses risks to the community and the environment, and it leaves you vulnerable to a second loss if you move or a natural disaster strikes.

Is it legal to bury a dog in your garden?

They can only be buried in the grounds of the house in which they lived and you must own, not rent, the land. The body must be placed at a depth of at least two feet in heavy soils or three feet in lighter soils. The body must not be hazardous to human health.

Should you bury your pet in a plastic bag?

I am not a big fan of wrapping deceased pets in a plastic bag. This will only slow the natural decaying process. Instead, I prefer wrapping the pet in a small blanket, sheet or towel before gently lowering it into the pre-dug hole. You should think about if and how you want to mark your pet’s grave.

What is the proper way to bury a pet?

Backyard Burial Tip: When burying a pet, don’t do so in a shallow grave. Be sure to have at least two feet of soil on top of the body. You want the grave deep enough so that other animals cannot smell the pet’s scent. It is natural for other animals to dig into the grave if the scent is strong.

Should I let my dog see my dead dog?

Should I show the body of my dead pet to my surviving dog? If your family pet has died from a cause that doesn’t pose a risk of infection to your surviving dog, and you feel comfortable doing so, you can show your dog the body of your deceased pet.

Will a buried cat smell?

It’s not easy and can even give off an unpleasant smell.

The process begins with digging up an area in your yard where you will bury them. Needless to say, this isn’t always easy. On top of this, if the remains is only buried superficially, it will give off an unpleasant odour in the air as the body decomposes.

Is it OK to bury your cat in the backyard?

There are no national laws regarding pet burial. In most cases, however, if you have lost a beloved companion animal and want to bury your pet yourself at home or on your property, you will avoid any legal ramifications as long as you take certain precautions first.

Can I bury my cat in a plastic container?

First, place your pet’s body in a heavy-duty plastic bag that fits his body. Next, place the bag in a wood, metal, or plastic bin. Plastic storage bins with locking lids work well.

How long does it take an animal to decompose in the ground?

In standard climates, a dog that is buried in the ground with nothing wrapped around it and in no coffin, might take 6 months to a year to decompose.

What happens to a dog’s body after death?

The body will soon begin to give off a foul odor and attract insects. The hotter the temperature, the faster the rate of decomposition. Rigor mortis, the stiffening of the joints, typically begins within 10 minutes to three hours after death and can last as long as 72 hours.

How deep should you bury a dog?

How deep should the hole be? The rule of thumb is to have at least 3 feet of dirt covering the top of the body. For a large dog, a 4 foot deep hole should suffice. Too shallow a grave will allow animals to dig up the remains.

How long does an animal take to decompose?

Small animals like a pig or a rat take a few days. Human remains, as Wescott mention above, take at least three months.


Composting Dead Animals in Your Back Yard
Composting Dead Animals in Your Back Yard


How to Bury a Pet without Wild Animals Digging it Up – Farewell Pet

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Other Ways to Keep Wild Animals Away

Grave Size

Place of the Grave

Alternate Methods to Burial

About Us

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How to Bury a Pet without Wild Animals Digging it Up – Farewell Pet
How to Bury a Pet without Wild Animals Digging it Up – Farewell Pet

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How Long Does It Take For A Buried Dog To Decompose? (Buried & Above Ground) – Dog Leash Pro

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How Long Does It Take For A Buried Dog To Decompose? (Buried & Above Ground) – Dog Leash Pro Updating How Long Does It Take For A Buried Dog To Decompose? It depends on whether the dog is buried below ground or exposed above ground.
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How long does it take for a buried dog to decompose

How long does it take for a dog to decompose above ground

Welcome to our pack!

How long does it take for a dog to decompose underground

How long does it take for a buried dog to decompose in a sealed box

How Your Dog Decompose

5 Stages of decomposition in a dog

How long can you wait to bury a dog

How long does it take for a dead dog to smell

How deep should you bury a dog

Where is the best place to bury a dog

Will a buried dog smell

What animal would dig up a dead dog

Considerations for burying your pet

5 Reasons why burying a dog in your backyard is a bad idea

5 Alternatives to burying your pet in the backyard

Details on US legislation regarding burying dog

Details on UK Legislation (as of 2013)

Welcome to our pack!

Welcome to our pack!

How Long Does It Take For A Buried Dog To Decompose? (Buried & Above Ground) - Dog Leash Pro
How Long Does It Take For A Buried Dog To Decompose? (Buried & Above Ground) – Dog Leash Pro

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Burying Your Dog at Home | Pet Home Burial | D for Dog

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Burying Your Dog at Home | Pet Home Burial | D for Dog Updating Is dog home burial legal and how to bury your dog at home? We discuss burying your pet at home, preparing the body, what to bury your pet in and the grave site.
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Home pet burial vs cremation

Preparing for the burial

Burying your dog at home

Can I bury my dog at home

What do I do if my dog dies at home

Checking for death

Preparing your dog’s body after death

Should I let my dog see my dead dog

How long can you wait to bury a dog

How to dig a pet’s grave

Proper way to bury a dog

Plan ahead

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Burying Your Dog at Home | Pet Home Burial | D for Dog
Burying Your Dog at Home | Pet Home Burial | D for Dog

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How to Bury a Cat: 12 Steps (with Pictures) – wikiHow

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to Bury a Cat: 12 Steps (with Pictures) – wikiHow Updating Losing a beloved pet is never easy. Saying goodbye can be incredibly painful. Sometimes, the closure of a burial and funeral can help. If you want to bury your cat, make sure it’s legal in your area. Then, choose a burial site, coffin, and…
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I want to bury a dead animal I found in a way to prevent it from being dug up. What should I do? – Wildlife Damage Management

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about I want to bury a dead animal I found in a way to prevent it from being dug up. What should I do? – Wildlife Damage Management 3) Sprinkle lime (the kind you spread on your grass) over the carcass and back fill and then on top of the ground to help control the odor. To … …
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I want to bury a dead animal I found in a way to prevent it from being dug up. What should I do? – Wildlife Damage Management
I want to bury a dead animal I found in a way to prevent it from being dug up. What should I do? – Wildlife Damage Management

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How to Bury a Dog in a Backyard With Wild Animals | Pets – The Nest

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about How to Bury a Dog in a Backyard With Wild Animals | Pets – The Nest Keep pesky wild animals away by securing Benson’s grave in a gated area – even if you simply surround his grave with chicken or barbed wire. If you don’t have a … …
  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to Bury a Dog in a Backyard With Wild Animals | Pets – The Nest Keep pesky wild animals away by securing Benson’s grave in a gated area – even if you simply surround his grave with chicken or barbed wire. If you don’t have a … Losing a four-legged family member never is an easy thing, especially when you have to worry about keeping his grave site safe. If you have coyotes, raccoons or other wild animals lurking around your yard, you’ll need to take a few precautions before burying your beloved pooch.
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How to Bury a Dog in a Backyard With Wild Animals | Pets - The Nest
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Animal digging up pet grave | TheCatSite

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about Animal digging up pet grave | TheCatSite In your situation, I would lay down some plastic, tack down wire mesh, put more dirt, then rocks. Im not sure if it would help, but you may want … …
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Animal digging up pet grave | TheCatSite
Animal digging up pet grave | TheCatSite

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Standard Recommendations for Burial of Domestic Pets and Animals

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Standard Recommendations for Burial of Domestic Pets and Animals

Specific Burial Guidelines

Standard Recommendations for Burial of Domestic Pets and Animals
Standard Recommendations for Burial of Domestic Pets and Animals

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How to Bury a Pet in the Yard | Pets on Mom.com

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How to Bury a Pet in the Yard | Pets on Mom.com
How to Bury a Pet in the Yard | Pets on Mom.com

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When You Have to Say Goodbye, How to Properly Bury a Pet. : 8 Steps (with Pictures) – Instructables

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about When You Have to Say Goodbye, How to Properly Bury a Pet. : 8 Steps (with Pictures) – Instructables What I have found works for me is to jamb the blade into the se of the hole at the bottom and then pry it backwards so it forces the blade to chip out the … …
  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for When You Have to Say Goodbye, How to Properly Bury a Pet. : 8 Steps (with Pictures) – Instructables What I have found works for me is to jamb the blade into the se of the hole at the bottom and then pry it backwards so it forces the blade to chip out the … When You Have to Say Goodbye, How to Properly Bury a Pet.: It is sad, but it is also a fact that every pet will someday die. There is no escape from it. We usually don’t know when and we don’t know where and we don’t know how, but we do know that it will happen. They all grow old and wear out or…
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Introduction When You Have to Say Goodbye How to Properly Bury a Pet

Step 1 A Bond Farewell

Step 2 Choices

Step 3 If You Chose to Bury Your Pet —

Step 4 The Digging Process

Step 5 Filling It In

Step 6 In Bonds Case —

Step 7 A Slow Blink Goodbye

Step 8 Dealing With Grief

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When You Have to Say Goodbye, How to Properly Bury a Pet. : 8 Steps (with Pictures) - Instructables
When You Have to Say Goodbye, How to Properly Bury a Pet. : 8 Steps (with Pictures) – Instructables

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Burying a pet – General Education Discussion Board – The Well-Trained Mind Community

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Burying a pet - General Education Discussion Board - The Well-Trained Mind Community
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Peacefully Burying Your Pet | Pet in Home Euthanasia | Tucson, AZ

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Peacefully Burying Your Pet | Pet in Home Euthanasia | Tucson, AZ Too shallow a grave will allow animals to dig up the remains. Also, a hole dug sufficiently deep will prevent decaying odors from escaping from the grave, … Learn more about peacefully burying your pet, including how to treat your pet’s remains with dignity. Call Peaceful Pet in Home in Tucson, AZ at (520) 485-4916.
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How To Bury Your Pet

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Peacefully Burying Your Pet | Pet in Home Euthanasia | Tucson, AZ
Peacefully Burying Your Pet | Pet in Home Euthanasia | Tucson, AZ

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How to Bury a Pet without Wild Animals Digging it Up – Farewell Pet

Burying a pet can be very difficult. It can be made to be even harder when you have other animals trying to get to the body of your friend. But what can be done to keep other animals away?

The best thing you can do is to bury the animal at least 2 feet underground so that the smell does not attract other animals. This is the best way to keep other animals away. Another way is to purchase a casket for the animal and bury them in it as this also helps to mask the smell.

There are also other ways to keep your friend safe from other animals. Continue reading for more information.

Other Ways to Keep Wild Animals Away

There are many different ways to keep wild animals away from your pet’s grave. One of those ways is to put a fence around the pet’s grave. This will keep many different animals away from the grave. You will want to have a tall fence that has been buried 4 or 5 feet into the ground. This will make it even more difficult for digging or burrowing animals to reach your pet.

There are even sprays or repellents you can buy and spray around the grave to repel the other animals. By so doing, you are keeping your friend safe from other animals.

Some people have set up sprinkler systems to begin spraying if an intruder animal has come onto their property. By the sprinklers coming up and spraying the animal every time it comes onto your property, this has been known to teach the animals to stay away from that yard and therefore, helps them stay away from your furry friend. This is also a great way to keep people off your lawn as well.

Grave Size

When burying your furry friend, you will want to make the grave at least 2-3 feet deep so that the smell does not attract animals. You will also want to make sure that the grave is wide and long enough to keep your pet comfortable. Make sure to know how large your animal is so that you can make the grave the correct size. Also make sure that if your pet is in a casket, the grave is even deeper so that the smell can be sealed in.

Also, make sure to check with your housing association to see where the utility lines are. If you begin to dig and hit one, then you will be dealing with a lot more. Make sure that the grave is set away from utility lines and is shallow enough not to interfere with those utility lines. After you are done digging the grave and have placed your friend inside, you may even place flowers in with them before you bury them. Once they are buried, you can even place a headstone at the head of the grave.

Some people have even been known to mark the grave with a few rose bushes. The bushes can mark the grave and use your friend as nutrients, creating something long-lasting for you to remember your friend by. This is also a great way to keep other animals away as the smell of the roses can mask the smell of your friend. This can also be a protection for the grave as the thorns will surely hurt any animal that comes near.

Place of the Grave

When selecting a gravesite, you will want to make sure that it is near enough so you can visit whenever you want. Many people bury their animals in their backyards. Others will send their furry friends’ remains to an animal cemetery, where the remains will be cared for until they can be buried. Pet cemeteries often are fenced off so that animals cannot get in.

If you are going to bury them in the backyard, you will want to put them in a quiet part of the yard so that it is not trampled by children playing. A quiet spot also allows for a space of reflection and remembrance of all the fun times you had with them. Some will bury their pets in the garden or flowerbeds so that their remains can feed the plants that they grow.

You may even consider a shaded place or a sunny spot, depending on what you or your pet liked more. A specific spot in the yard can be a great way to protect your pet’s remains. If you have a spot planned after they die, then you can make improvements to it so that other animals cannot get through.

Alternate Methods to Burial

If you do not like the idea of burial, and other animals possibly getting to your pet, then you may consider cremation. This makes it so that you do not have to worry about other animals coming after your pet. Cremation allows you to scatter your pet’s ashes in one of your favorite outdoor places to go. This in and of itself can be healing.

Many people are beginning to enjoy water burials, where you scatter your pet’s ashes in a body of water. Other people will purchase a decorative urn and keep the ashes of their pet with them. Some people even send their pet’s ashes to a company and have them turn the ashes into a glass piece or a piece of jewelry. This can be a very memorable piece to keep through the years and remember your pets and what they meant to you.

There are so many ways that you can keep your pet’s remains safe. By doing so you honor them and who they were. If you do not want to bury your pets then there are other ways to care for your pet’s remains. You can cremate them and even send the ashes to a company and have them memorialized as a piece of jewelry or a statuette. You can care for them in many different ways and every way is unique to you and your pet.

How Long Does It Take For A Buried Dog To Decompose? (Buried & Above Ground)

Dogs are adorable pets. The sad news is that, just like humans, dogs do die. A dog’s death can be caused by various factors such as illnesses, accidents, old age, or going without water for long periods of time to name a few. When they die, it’s important that we know what to do next.

How long does it take for a buried dog to decompose? It takes an average of 6 months to 18 years for a buried dog to decompose fully. If a dog is exposed and not buried, it will decompose much more quickly. The speed at which a dog decomposes depends on how deep you buried him, the climate, and if his body is enclosed or exposed.

To help you make the best, most informed decision about the dog burial process, we’ve provided valuable information and answers to all your questions on how to handle a dead dog and what goes on through the decomposition process when a dog dies.

How long does it take for a buried dog to decompose?

Depending on various factors, the buried dog decomposes fully (dry bones stage), for an average of 6 months to 18 years.

The decomposition process taking place underground is determined by various factors. For example:

The depth at which the carcass is buried.

at which the carcass is buried. Burial method . For example; lay the carcass in the grave and pour soil directly over it, covered by a piece of cloth or blanket, put in a coffin, or put in a plastic bag.

. For example; lay the carcass in the grave and pour soil directly over it, covered by a piece of cloth or blanket, put in a coffin, or put in a plastic bag. Climate. It’s also a major factor to consider. If your area is hot, the carcass is likely to decompose faster compared to the cold areas.

It’s also a major factor to consider. If your area is hot, the carcass is likely to decompose faster compared to the cold areas. Age. The younger the dog, the faster it decomposes compared to adult and old dogs.

The younger the dog, the faster it decomposes compared to adult and old dogs. Breed. The larger the body the longer it takes to fully decompose unlike the ones with smaller body size.

How long does it take for a dog to decompose above ground?

It takes an average of 3 to 6 months for a dead dog to fully decompose if left above ground.

If you are a pet parent, you can agree with me on this.

You consider your dog as family. And you are more than willing to do all that it takes to keep them around and healthy. When nature calls, there isn’t much you can do to prevent the worst from happening.

Finding a dog lying on the ground dead and just decomposing in the open is uncommon. If this is the case, it could be due to one of two reasons.

First, maybe the dog did not have a permanent home or anyone who ever took care of it when it was alive.

Second, maybe the dog was taking a walk by itself, got in an accident and never made it home nor got any medical attention and died. Making the matter worse, maybe dragged to the nearest bush and the owner never gets to know it’s whereabouts.

And just like that, you start smelling something rotten from your neighborhood or when using the road.

Now is the time to start digging deep on how long you are going to keep up with the unbearable stinky smell you are not sure how to control.

Starting from the 3rd to the 14th day, things are going to be tough! It will even worsen when it’s sunny! The smell is going to be very strong.

Plus the flies are going to be all over the place. Starting from the carcass to some few meters away!

But, worry not nature has a way of resolving itself. Your situation might be relieved maybe even before the 14 days elapses.

Scavengers might come picking on the flesh, flies, maggots, and maybe rain. And the situation gets resolved by itself.

Once all the flesh is dissolved, dry bones don’t smell.

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How long does it take for a dog to decompose underground?

Unlike a dead dog that is left exposed above ground, underground decomposition takes longer. Depending on a number of factors, the carcass to fully undergo the decomposition process can take an average of 6 months to 18 years.

Here are the possible factors which can enable the carcass the decompose within a period of 6 months to 1 year:

Buried on a maximum of three feet down the ground.

Buried on bare soil, no blanket covering, carton box, nothing.

Normal climatic temperature.

If buried deeper, blanket-covered, in a carton box, coffin, or using a plastic bag. It takes 2-18 years to fully decompose.

How long does it take for a buried dog to decompose in a sealed box?

The duration of between 6 months to 2 years is enough for a dead dog buried in a box to fully decompose.

As compared to bare burial, box burial can take a little bit longer. But the difference is not much given a box breaks easily.

How Your Dog Decompose

Did you know that decomposition kicks off immediately when the dog dies?

Now you know.

The moment blood circulation stops around the dog’s body that is the moment the decomposition process takes over.

The first stage is not visible nor does any smell come out.

The smell will start to be noticed between 10 – 78 hours after death.

The Decomposition stages include:

Fresh

Bloat

Active decay

Advanced decay

Dry bones

Let’s discuss each of these stages in details.

5 Stages of decomposition in a dog

The only way you will be able to see all the five stages go down, is when the carcass is left above the ground.

1. Fresh

Once the blood stops pumping, it starts to get cold, making the start of decomposition. Within three to six hours after death, the blood starts to drain towards the area of pressure (where it’s lying on). It can be the belly, back, or head.

The flies are most likely the ones to arrive first and will feed on the blood and flesh. They will also lay eggs which can be dangerous to other animals nearby if the dead body isn’t taken care of properly.

2. Bloat

Bloating looks like swelling. It appears that the dead dog’s body increases in size. This is because the gases in the carcass build up and eventually cause the fluids to push out of the dead body.

Now the smell is at its peak. If the carcass is above the ground, anything which feeds on the carcass will be invited by the smell.

3. Active Decay

At this stage, the rotten smell has started to fade away slowly. The size of the carcass has reduced. Since blood is gone, only minimal flesh is left. The only things left are flies and maggots feeding any last piece of flesh.

4. Advanced Decay

Most of the decomposition process has taken place. The fur and dry bone are the only things remaining. The flies and maggots will be gone by the end of this stage. If the carcass was lying on the grass, it’s also dried by now.

5. Dry Remains

This marks the end of the decomposition process. The only things left are dry bones, cartilage, and dry skin.

Note: If the carcass is buried, there will be no flies and scavengers which means the decomposition process is longer. Maggots are the ones that do the flesh breaking down process.

How long can you wait to bury a dog?

After death, waiting 2 to 3 hours is enough if you touch and feel the body is already cold. This confirms the decomposition process has taken off.

If you wait more than 3 hours, the flies will start settling on the dead dog. And a few hours later (10 to 12 hours), the carcass will start to produce a rotten smell if the climate is warm or hot.

If you want to avoid this, it’s best to conduct the burial process sooner rather than later.

How long does it take for a dead dog to smell?

It depends on various factors. Let’s talk about temperature. If it’s snowing or cold where you live and the dead dog is outside, the carcass will not have any smell. In a warmer climate, the smell will start becoming noticeable between 10 to 12 hours after death.

Under normal temperature, the awful rotten smell will be all-over the place within 24 to 48 hours.

Keeping a carcass in your house is the worst idea ever! You are inviting all kinds of flies and pests which can spread serious disease.

The best you can do to keep your dead dog around the house henceforth, is to settle for cremation.

How deep should you bury a dog?

The standard depth for a dog grave is two feet deep. But if the selected spot is 90+% sand. The depth can be increased up to three feet.

The reason you are taking the effort to bury the dog is to prevent the unbearable smell the carcass will have from affecting your daily activities. Plus ensure a proper decomposition process.

Then comes the need of doing it right:

To prevent it from being dug up by animals.

Prevent breaking any underground pipes.

Find the right materials to cover the grave. It’s necessary to ensure the grave is not disturbed.

Fill the top 5 to 8 inches with small stones. If you wish to, you can construct a concrete slab on top.

Where is the best place to bury a dog?

When selecting the best spot to lay your pet to rest, it is important to take your time in selecting an area that you are sure will not be dug up in the near future.

You need to ensure the spot is not near any pipes or wires. Plus, it should be a safe distance from a water source.

Also, it should be some reasonable distance from the flowerbed, since flowers need to be taken care of more often.

Will a buried dog smell?

Yes, a buried dog does smell, but unlike a carcass left above ground, a buried dog does not smell all over the place. Also, the remains do not get picked up by flies, birds, and animals.

What animal would dig up a dead dog?

The most common animals that would dig up dead dogs include fox, bear, wolf and badger.

It’s not only heartbreaking, but it can be traumatizing finding the precious dog you buried being dug up to the surface by an animal and their remains being scattered all over the place.

Or you find the grave open, and the dog you buried has been taken away or stolen.

That is why when you decide to bury your dog, it is best to take all the necessary precautions. To ensure the process turns out to be a success.

The most important steps are:

Dig the grave deep enough so it’s harder to dip up. Two to three feet deep is recommended.

Cover the grave properly. Preferably with stones or slabs.

Considerations for burying your pet

Now that you are in a situation to decide whether to bury your pet or not, here is a list of ideas to help you make an informed decision.

1. Cremation

Are you an environmental keeper? If your answer is yes. We are on the same boat. Let’s keep sailing.

Burying your dead pet in the yard can not only be a tedious process but also comes with lots of precautions to take. Here comes the simple way out: Cremation. This will also grant you the opportunity to feel close to your pooch.

Cremation: You won’t need to worry about anything. All you need is to sit tight and let the carcass get reduced into ashes.

This process does not contaminate the environment. You won’t have any future regrets when you want to move to a new home. All you will need is to pack your belongings and bring your cremated urn along.

2. Safety

Before making any decision, you need to put in place all the safety measures ahead of anything else.

Before starting to dig deep down the ground. It’s best if you first let the authority know.

Once granted a go-ahead, you can comfortably go ahead with your plans without worrying that you might end up in trouble or even worse hurting yourself. For example, you accidentally land on an electric wire. Or gas pipe to name a few.

3. Depth

Maybe your tradition or religion does not allow cremation. Worry not, as I promised earlier, I am here to help each and everyone who lands on our website to find a solution and answer what you are looking for.

Once you have decided on the perfect spot to bury your pet, make sure to dig deep enough. At least two feet deep. It’s best to make it three feet if possible if your dog breed is big, such as a bulldog.

Do not forget to cover the grave properly. Preferably with stones or a slab. It helps to minimize the disturbance of the grave.

4. Location

Are you wondering what location has to do with you burying your pet?

Well, it’s very important to take note of a particular location around your house or apartment that is dry and high if any. Selecting a place where rainwater settles or a swampy area can easily lead to underground water contamination.

If the grave area soaks wet, the possibility of contaminating underground water is very high. Thus poisoning the environment.

5 Reasons why burying a dog in your backyard is a bad idea

Burying your dog in the backyard can seem like the easy and the fastest way to quickly bury the carcass.

But, did you know that one of the riskiest ways to deposit a carcass, is to dig up the soil and just put it inside? Little do they know, it’s a very bad idea. Here’s why:

1. The Carcass Being Dug Up

It will be to your surprise, when you wake up one morning only to find the remains of the dog you buried, scattered all-over the place around your yard.

Animals like foxes are good at such a job. Especially if you didn’t bury the carcass deep enough, at least two feet deep plus cover the grave properly.

If your pet had a medical condition that led to the death, you can guess what’s coming your way especially if the condition was contagious!

2. Flooding

Underground contamination can be the worst contamination ever because it can affect a very wide area. Plus the reason for contamination can take longer to be detected.

A number of pets can easily get contaminated. It will even get worse if humans get an infection.

To be each other’s keeper, please let’s take all the necessary precautions to facilitate healthy living.

Let’s avoid to bury carcasses in any area where flood water often affects.

3. Law

Before you go ahead and bury your pet in the backyard. It’s best for you to know that in the US, some states do not allow home pet burial.

Whereas some states do allow, but you need approval from the authority and you need to comply with all the rules and regulations put in place.

4. Leaving Your Pet Behind

There may be situations where you need to relocate. And you already buried your dog in the backyard. You will have to cope with the situation of letting your dog go by leaving them behind. This is definitely not an easy thing to come to terms with.

5. Resurfacing

Getting to a situation where you find the carcass of the dog you buried surfaced and being swept away with heavy rainwater can be a nightmare.

It is very possible especially if the grave is shallow such as just below two feet deep.

As well it can cause water contamination and spread an infection.

5 Alternatives to burying your pet in the backyard

Who does not like it when given an alternative to work in a given situation? As for me, I love having alternatives to solving a problem. It gives an option to make a decision. Thus relieving the situation a little bit.

Let’s dive in to the alternatives of burying your pet in the backyard.

Outdoor urn (rock). It’s okay if you want to go for the cremation option but you don’t like it one bit to keep the cremains in your house. There is an option for you to get an outdoor urn (rock), which you can always keep in the backyard. Biodegradable urn. The option of having your pet cremated. And having the opportunity to conduct burial for them without contaminating the environment is adorable. Making the idea more awesome, you can spread the ashes on the most memorable spot between you and your pet. Pet donation. Would you like your pet to be part of history? Well, you have the best option of donating it to a research institution. It will provide the best opportunity for willing learners in the veterinary profession to enhance their knowledge. Pet Cemetery. Finding the best place within your house or apartment to use as a grave spot can be a little difficult. And the only option you’re left with is to settle for the pet cemetery so you can pay your last respect to your adorable pet. Alkaline hydrolysis. Using heat, water, and alkaline chemicals, the body will decompose faster than letting nature take its time. The bone fragments cremains will then be given to the dog owner.

Details on US legislation regarding burying dog

Pet burial law varies from state to state. It is best for you to make an inquiry from the authority to be on the safe side of the law before taking any step.

The most common laws under the dog burial include:

The dead pet is required to be buried within 24-48hrs from the time of death.

Backyard pet burial must be permitted by the authority. Under the compliance of all the rules and regulations put in place.

Cemetery pet burial is allowed. Though it can sometimes take longer than 48hrs.

Details on UK Legislation (as of 2013)

Did you know that in the UK, it’s a crime to bury a dog on a rented property?

If you don’t own the property, then you have an option to bury your pet in a registered pet cemetery. Plus the grave depth should be two feet deep if it’s heavy soil and three feet deep for light soil.

There is no carcass disposal anywhere near water sources and no burying of an animal with a contagious condition.

Final Thoughts

At this point, I believe you are better equipped with almost if not all the necessary information on how long you have to wait to bury a dog and how to properly conduct a safe burial process. It will be the best idea for you to go through the post step by step. I trust you will come out with one or two new ideas.

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE

The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Resources:

https://www.wikihow.com/Bury-a-Pet

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-03-19/why-you-shouldn%E2%80%99t-bury-your-pet-in-the-backyard/10915772

I’m a pet lover who has years of pet sitting and grooming experience. I thought it would be a great idea to share my experience with all pet owners so they can also keep their canine companions healthy, happy, and clean!

Burying Your Dog at Home

Home > Dog Blog > Bereavement & Life End Burying Your Dog at Home 111 Comments Friday, 19 September 2014 | D for Dog The death of a beloved pet is an upsetting and emotional time. But because it is something we all know, as dog owners, that we will have to face at some stage, I wanted to do a series of bereavement articles discussing topics like when to say goodbye, euthanasia and pet burial. In this article we will discuss pet burial at home. If you would like to bury your dog at home, you may be wondering if home pet burial is legal, how to be sure of death, how to prepare your dog’s body, what specifications the grave should meet such as grave depth, what to bury your dog in (do you need a coffin?) and whether to show the body to your other pets? With so many important questions arising at this time, we hope this article helps answer some of those concerns. Home pet burial vs cremation Pet home burials are still popular despite an increase in pet cremations. Home burials are private, personal and less expensive than other alternatives. Although the popularity of pet cremations has increased in recent years, it isn’t for everyone. Some recent stories in the media of people abusing the trust put in them must have put many people off pet cremation. Apart from the horror stories, pet cremation has other pitfalls that you need to be aware of such as individual versus communal cremation. Communal cremation is common. Always assume the cremation of your pet will be communal unless told otherwise. Do you really get your own pet’s ashes back? Was your pet even cremated or simply dumped somewhere while the fee was pocketed? The intricacies and pitfalls of pet cremation are many. It is not like human cremation. It doesn’t seem to be regulated… but that is a whole other article. Preparing for the burial In this article and video we will discuss everything you need to know about preparing your dog’s body after death, the legalities of pet home burial, digging your dog’s grave and burying your pet at home. But first, there are some things you may want to do in advance of the burial. Mementos and keepsakes are very comforting to have and cherish after your dog has passed away. 3D Photo Engraved Crystal Blockfrom: £30.00 Your Dog’s Paw Print Charm Necklacefrom: £91.00 Pet Fur & Ashes Silver Bracelet Bead £85.00 Pet Fur & Ashes Silver Heart Necklace £90.00 Think about whether you would like a print of their paw, a snip of their fur etc. There are so many beautiful memorial pieces you can buy to remember your beloved pet, from crystal photo cubes to jewellery featuring their paw print or containing fur or ashes. Burying your dog at home Can you bury your pet at home? Is it legal to bury your dog in your garden? How can you be certain your pet has passed away? How should you prepare their body? What can you bury your pet in? Where should the grave site be? How deep should your pet’s grave be? Let’s talk about performing a home burial for your dog. If you want to bury your dog at home, here are some things to be aware of. The information given is applicable to UK pet home burials. Please check the legalities for your country if you are not based in the UK. Can I bury my dog at home? There are few laws or rules regarding UK home pet burial. As long as you own the property (not renting), it has a domestic use and your dog lived there (although quite frankly who is going to check that part), you can bury your pet at home. Please note that this information is correct for the UK. If you live elsewhere you may need to check the legalities for where you live. The only exception to UK home burial would be if your pet’s remains are considered to be hazardous waste. This seems open to interpretation. If your vet did use this as a reason for your pet not to be allowed home for a burial, ask them for a written explanation. Also, if you own the property but are worried about what will happen if you move, a home burial may not be your best option. What do I do if my dog dies at home? Holding a wake came from the very sensible need to know if a person was really deceased before burying them. The person would be laid out and literally left for a while to see if they would wake up. It sounds strange to us now, but if you are at home with a dying pet it is not necessarily immediately evident when they have passed away. A vet will listen to their heart with a stethoscope and will discreetly check for your pet’s vital signs. But as owners, how can we be sure? Checking for death I know it is another dreadful thing to have to think about but you do need to be sure of your pet’s passing before you bury or refrigerate the body. Even vets have been known to get it wrong. It is rare and not something to have nightmares about but here are some signs of death to check for: Check for a pulse or heart beat – place two fingers (not your thumb) lightly on the dog’s chest between/behind the front legs or inside the back legs where the back leg joins the body.

Watch and listen for signs of breathing.

Check the colour of the gums, which are usually pink when the dog is alive.

Finally the start of rigor mortis, where the body becomes stiff, is a sure sign of death. Don’t feel afraid of making sure of death. It is important. You may even want to call your vet and explain that you would like help determining the death of your pet. Don’t be afraid to do the checks above or to ask for help if you need it. Preparing your dog’s body after death When your dog has passed away, get a plastic sheet or something else waterproof like a bin bag. This is because bodily fluids can come out of your pet’s body after death and possibly again when moved or handled. On top of that you can put a blanket or towel. Here you can lay your dog’s body on their side, slightly curled up in a sleeping position. This looks more pleasant, makes for easier handling later and positioning in the grave. Your dog’s eyes will probably be open. This is completely natural because all their muscles have relaxed. Please don’t worry and there is no need to try to close their eyes. Should I let my dog see my dead dog? During this time, if you have any other pets, you may choose to show them the body of their doggie pal. I always feel this can help other dogs or pets in the household to understand that one of their pack has died, rather than wondering where they have gone. Let them see and smell the body and give them as much time as they need, which doesn’t tend to be more than a few sniffs. How long can you wait to bury a dog? It is a good idea to wait 2-3 hours after death before burying your pet, to be sure of their demise. Once rigor mortis has set in you can go ahead with the burial. Sometimes the burial can’t take place right away. Maybe you are waiting for a family member to come home or for a coffin to arrive. If this is the case, it might be an idea to ask your vet if you can use space in their mortuary refrigerator. If this is not possible or if the wait is only for a little while, a cool dark basement or similar place will suffice. You can keep your pet in this way over night, depending on temperature, humidity etc. How to dig a pet’s grave Select the position of the grave carefully. It is nice to pick an area of your garden that is pretty or that your dog enjoyed in their lifetime but certain things need to be considered. Choose a place that is unlikely to need to be excavated in the future (so flower beds are often best avoided unless you plan to put a tree or memorial stone on top) and don’t put a grave in a place that gets boggy or is at risk of flooding. Also, keep the grave site far away from water sources such as wells, ponds, streams etc… Also take care not to disrupt any underground pipes or cables. To prepare your dog’s grave, measure around your dog to get an idea of the size of grave you need to dig, width and length wise. Depth wise, the grave should be at least 3-4 feet deep. This is for health reasons and also to safeguard against scavengers, other pets from digging up the burial area, or even rain from washing away topsoil and uncovering the grave. Don’t forget a 3 foot deep grave allows for about 2 foot of soil to go back on top. Proper way to bury a dog Your dog should be buried in something that is breathable and biodegradable like a towel, blanket, wooden, wicker or cardboard coffin. Avoid making a casket out of anything plastic or that is sealed in an air-tight way. Do not bury your dog in a plastic bag or anything else that is non-breathable and non-biodegradable. Once the grave is filled you will have a mound of earth that can be piled on top. It will eventually settle in time. Let the whole family be part of the burial. Writing poems, saying a few words, letting children add letters, drawings and dog toys to the grave can all help. Finally, to mark your pet’s final resting place you can plant a lovely bush or shrub and/or add a keepsake or pet memorial stone or grave marker. Make it as touching or as simple as you want. There are no rules. Ceramic Portrait Dog Grave Marker £44.00 Personalised Photo Pet Memorial Slate £21.95 Personalised Dog Memorial Sympathy Card £3.99 Personalised Pet Memorial Planter £25.00 Plan ahead Try to think in advance about what you want to happen to your pet’s body after their death. Facing their death is upsetting enough without having to suddenly decide what you want to do with their body. I have known people who hadn’t thought about it in advance and made a quick decision at the time of death that they later regretted. If you know you would like a home burial for your pet, plan ahead. This is especially important if you want to purchase a coffin. The last thing you want to have to do when you are grieving, in shock and up against time is start a search for the perfect coffin for your dog. I think home burial is a very personal way to deal with a pet’s passing. It is not expensive and you know exactly what has happened to your pet’s body during the entire process, rather than entrusting the handling to someone else. Finally, many people feel that, once their pet has passed, the body is now simply an unused vehicle from their life on earth. Don’t feel you have to go to any great lengths to care for remains if you don’t want to. We all have different feelings about this. As long as everyone who loved the pet is in agreement with what should happen to the body, that is all that matters. “The one best place to bury a good dog is in the heart of his master.”

Ben Hur Lampman – 1925 Articles of interest You may also like to read our article Having Your Dog Put To Sleep – What Actually Happens? By Jenny Prevel © D for Dog www.dfordog.co.uk

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