All About Aquamation

The concept of alkaline hydrolysis dates back to 1888, when the first U.S. patent for the process was issued. However, it wasn’t until 1994 that the first commercial “tissue digesters” were patented and installed in medical and veterinary research facilities. These units were primarily used for safely disposing of laboratory tissue, infectious disease samples, and medical waste due to their ability to completely destroy pathogens.

• By 2003, 29 alkaline hydrolysis units were installed worldwide, mainly in veterinary diagnostic laboratories and medical institutions.
• By 2006, over 60 units were in operation in the United States alone for veterinary use.

The transition of alkaline hydrolysis from medical applications to human and pet aftercare began in the early 2000s:

• 2005 – The Mayo Clinic installed the first single-body human aquamation system.
• 2008 – The first aquamation unit for pets was installed at a crematory in Ohio, marking the beginning of its use in the pet aftercare industry.
• 2010 – A funeral home in Columbus, Ohio, became the first U.S. facility to offer aquamation for human remains.

Today, over 60 pet aquamation units are in operation across the United States, with an estimated 3,000+ veterinary clinics offering it as an option for pet owners. Aquamation for human use is currently approved in 15 U.S. states and multiple Canadian provinces, with more states reviewing its regulatory approval.

Monarch Pet Memorial Services is the first Aquamation facility in South Florida and currently the largest sole water based facility in the world.

Aquamation mimics the natural decomposition process that occurs when a body is buried. Instead of flame, it uses a combination of warm water, gentle flow, and alkalinity to break down soft tissue, leaving behind only pure white bone remains.

• Pets are placed in separate compartments to ensure no co-mingling. A gentle solution of 95% water and 5% alkali circulates, breaking down tissue over 20–24 hours.
• The remaining bones are dried for up to 48 hours, then processed into a fine, white powder, similar to ashes.
• Unlike flame cremation, which burns away some of the remains, aquamation returns about 10% more ashes to the pet owner.

• 90% Less Energy – Uses significantly less energy than flame cremation.
• Zero Emissions – No greenhouse gases, mercury, or harmful byproducts.
• Gentler Process – Avoids fire and extreme heat, making it a more natural farewell.
• More Remains Returned – Because there’s no burning, families receive a higher volume of remains than with flame cremation.
• Destroys All Pathogens – Unlike flame cremation, aquamation neutralizes even prion diseases, making it a safe method for all pets.
• Eco-Friendly Effluent – The sterile water solution left after the process contains only organic elements (amino acids, salts, peptides) and is environmentally safe.