Pet owners in Kerala are facing a significant challenge when it comes to saying goodbye to their beloved pets. With the absence of proper facilities for the burial of deceased pets in the state, many are left feeling lost and unsure of how to give their furry companions a respectful farewell. For many, pets are not just animals but beloved family members, and their passing can be as painful as losing a human loved one.
The demand for pet funeral services has been on the rise in Kerala, especially with the increase in pet ownership post-Covid. However, the state currently lacks a dedicated animal crematorium, leaving pet owners with limited options for handling the remains of their deceased pets. While officials have announced plans for an electric crematorium under the Thrissur Corporation that will cater to pets, excluding elephants, it is expected to take six months before it becomes operational.
Veterinary expert Dr. Shahjahan Waheed has highlighted the importance of having proper facilities for the burial of deceased pets. He compared the situation to not handing over a deceased relative’s body to someone else, emphasizing the need for pet owners to have a dignified way to bid farewell to their pets.
In contrast to Kerala, neighboring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have long had animal crematoriums and related services in place. These states offer private cremation services, specialized mortuaries for keeping deceased animals, and even personalized markers made of marble and granite for pet burials. The availability of such services in these states highlights the need for Kerala to catch up and provide similar facilities for pet owners.
Dr. P. R. Vinodan of Malabar Pet Clinic has stressed the importance of offering diverse funeral practices for pets, such as ritualistic cremations and prayerful burials. He emphasized that providing special burial services that align with the beliefs and needs of pet owners is essential and urgently needed in Kerala.
In conclusion, the absence of proper facilities for the burial of deceased pets in Kerala has left many pet owners struggling to give their furry companions a respectful farewell. With the demand for pet funeral services on the rise, it is crucial for the state to establish dedicated animal crematoriums and burial facilities to cater to the needs of pet owners. By providing these services, Kerala can ensure that pet owners have a dignified way to say goodbye to their beloved pets and find closure during a difficult time.