For many of us, our pets are an extension of our family. Often, we see our pets more than our family, especially during these times of COVID-19. Our faithful pets are there to welcome us home or sit by our sides as we work from home. Our pets love us unconditionally and ask very little in return. Just food, a walk, and all the love we can give.
Losing a pet can be as devastating, for many, as losing a family member or dear friend. For those people that have few family members left, the pain of losing a pet is often nearly the same as losing a human.
For those that never want to say goodbye to their pets, there is a solution.
Pet Preservation
For those that choose to have their pet forever, there are options. Many people choose to freeze dry or have their pet taxidermized. Your pet will look lifelike and bring comfort to those that are not ready to say goodbye to their dear animal friends.
Many people did not realize that pet taxidermy was an option or do not know much about the process, so we are going to make this easy and provide answers to many frequently asked questions about the process, what to do immediately and how long their pet will last in these states.
FAQs about Pet Preservation:
Pet preservation is increasing in popularity, especially turtlecaring.com for those that gain comfort knowing their beloved pet is with them, and always will be.
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions.
What is pet taxidermy?
Pet taxidermy enables the pet owner to have their pet forever. Unlike burial or cremation, when your pet undergoes taxidermy procedures, you are enlisting the skills of an artist. The process uses the pet’s fur, nails, skin, and fat to recreate the animal the way it was in life.
This may seem like a new idea to some, but as far back as the ancient Egyptians, animals were preserved. In many cases, they were buried with their owner. In the Victorian era, taxidermy for pets and animals once again began to become popular.
It became a trendy and fashionable practice to preserve their beloved pets after they died, instead of cremation or burial.
What is freeze-drying and how does the process work?
Unlike taxidermy, freeze-drying leaves the musculoskeletal system in the animal, instead of taking it out and stretching the skin over a form. When a pet is freeze-dried, the appearance does not change at all. The pet returned to you will look as vibrant as your pet did while it was alive.
The process involves removing the internal organs through an incision made in the pets’ pelvis and is barely visible when completed. Freeze drying a pet involves slow drying to remove liquid and moisture from the body. It uses a very slow vacuum-type of process.
This process takes a while because the exact time is based on the pets’ weight. A small dog may take six months or longer; even a tiny mouse can take between 30-45 days. A large dog can often take nine months and even longer. There is no way to make this process shorter. In the end, you will have your pet back.
You will be able to touch your pet, gently comb its hair and give it the love it always gave you.
What should I do when my pet dies?
When your pet dies, it is best to wrap them in a towel and put it in a big plastic bag. It should be put in the freezer as soon as possible. This should be done within 24 hours after death. The pet should be positioned with its legs tucked in and the head tilted down. Your pet can stay in the freezer for a substantial period of time without getting freezer burn, but the faster you get the pet to the freeze drier, but better results.
To ship the pet, take the bag with the animal and fit it into a foam cooler. Tape up the box securely and put the cooler into a larger box. It is best to ship the pet Overnight Express mail. If that is not available or too costly, you can pack it with dry ice or freezer packs to keep the animal chilled. DO NOT use ice as it will melt and can cause some damage to the animal’s body.
How will the pet be posed?
The taxidermist or freeze drier will ask the owner for some pictures of the pet, so they can get an idea of how the pet looked and behaved in life. They will then discuss options and make recommendations on the best pose for your pet. You may choose to have your pet posed with its favorite toy, dog bed, or other items that it enjoyed during its life.
Choosing the preferred method for you and your pet:
Which method you choose, either freeze-drying or having your pet taxidermied is a personal choice and affordability. There are more and more companies offering these types of services to grieving pet parents. One highly acclaimed freeze drier is Animal Family Pet Preservation. They have been providing their services since 1993 and have won many awards for their outstanding service and results. One look at these pets, and you will have a hard time believing the pet is not alive and ready for a treat.
If you have lost a pet and not ready to say goodbye, consider a pet preservation method to keep your pet with you always.
