Once a pet has been cremated, all that
is left are bones, teeth and other mineralized remains. These are not
what we think of as cremation ashes at this point.
Unprocessed remains
The pet crematorium further processes
these remains with a machine that reduces these remains to a sand
like consistency that most people are familiar with.
Chemically these remains are almost
like powdered limestone with an increased sodium content. This means
that the ashes are alkaline and salty. When cremated remains are just
poured out onto the ground they will clump when exposed to rain,
inhibit plant growth or “burn” a grass lawn. This is why so many
outdoor sports complexes prohibit the scattering of human remains on
their fields.
In order not to inhibit plant growth
the ashes should be scattered over a broad area from about 1 square
meter for a cat, to 9 square meters for a Giant breed dog, like a
Great Dane or Mastiff. Alternatively some people mix the cremated
remains into a soil mixture that will help dilute the sodium content
and neutralize its alkaline nature.
There are special products designed for
the burial or scattering of cremated remains. Tube like scattering
urns help spread the ashes more effectively.
At least one company makes a soil
mixture that properly dilutes and neutralizes the harmful effects of
the ashes. Let your Love Grow (http://www.letyourlovegrow.com/)
has many helpful tips to improve the plant growth effects of
scattering, or burying cremated remains.
In Renfrew county many areas have soils
are acidic due to the accumulation and breakdown of pine needles over
time. In many cases the ashes can often be worked into the soil and
have a beneficial effect. If you truly want the plants or grass to
thrive, then the soil pH should be tested.
Where
You are allowed to scatter ashes on
Ontario Crown land that is unoccupied, including those covered by
water. Crown land includes provincial parks, provincial conservation
reserves and the Great Lakes. However, you should check for any signs
with rules or prohibitions around the scattering of cremated remains.
If you wish to scatter cremated remains on municipally-owned lands,
you should check municipal by-laws first. The scattering of cremated
remains on private land or private land covered by water requires the
owner's consent.
National parks prohibit the scattering
of cremated remains in water, although you may “cast them to the
wind” without obtaining permission.
Please note that there are ecologically
sensitive areas where scattering should not be done. High mountain
areas have a delicate ecosystem and they should be avoided.
Ecological damage due to ash scattering has been reported
in Scotland and Wales where such scattering has resulted in marked
changes in the mountain trail fauna.
VRCS Scattering Garden
VRCS Gazebo & Scattering Garden - Fall 2012
The VRCS scattering garden is present
on the north edge of the property (905 Pembroke St E, Pembroke, ON)
overlooking the Ottawa River. Communally cremated pets (pets cremated together and the remains are not returned to their owners) are
scattered on these grounds. If you wish to scatter the remains
of your pet (or relation) around these gardens, then please check in with us and we will show
you the best areas to do so.
Wherever you scatter, the process
should be done with discretion and downwind from other people. As a
guide, you should not scatter ashes within 90 meters of public roads,
walks or public trails. Cremation and the scattering ashes may be
offensive to some people and cultures.
Veterinary Referral Cremation Services
905 Pembroke St. E
Pembroke, On K8A 3M3
613-732-3845 1-877-332-3845
info@vrcs.ca
