For many pet owners, it is a small comfort to lay their beloved companion to rest in their own garden. This also allows children to say goodbye in a peaceful and familiar setting.
“Rest in peace, little friend.” The loss of a cherished pet—be it a dog, cat, or rabbit—can be incredibly painful. Even the thought of one day parting with a loyal companion can be overwhelming for animal lovers. Nevertheless, it is wise to consider in advance what will happen to a pet’s remains after its passing.
Many pet owners find solace in knowing that their pet will be buried in the place where it spent many happy moments—at home, in their garden. Under certain conditions, this is generally permitted.
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Rules for Burying a Pet in Your Garden
- Only one pet may be buried per grave.
- The pet must not have died from a reportable disease (e.g., rabies).
- The property must not be located in a nature reserve or water protection area to prevent soil and water contamination.
- The burial site must not be too close to public paths or places—it should be several meters away.
- The pet’s remains must be covered by at least 50 cm of soil to prevent scavenging by wild animals. Placing stones over the grave provides extra security.
- If you live in a rented property, obtain permission from your landlord to avoid future disputes.
Helpful Tip:
Wrap your deceased pet in natural fibers before burial, as these decompose more easily. Fleece or synthetic fabrics do not fully break down and can leave microplastics in the soil.
Do Not Dispose of Pets in the Trash
Though it may seem obvious to most pet owners, it is important to mention: deceased dogs and cats must not be disposed of in household trash, compost bins, or organic waste.
However, the remains of small animals such as hamsters, mice, and garden birds may be discarded in household waste.
Pet Burial: Public Forests and Fields Are Forbidden
Not every pet owner has access to a private garden, and some landlords do not allow pet burials on rental property. While the idea of laying a beloved pet to rest in a meadow or forest clearing may seem appealing, this is strictly prohibited.
Alternatives to Burial in Your Garden
If you cannot or do not wish to bury your pet at home, consider the following options:
- Veterinary Disposal: Many veterinarians offer a pet disposal service for a fee.
- Pet Cemeteries: In many areas, there are designated pet cemeteries where you can lay your pet to rest.
- Cremation: Specialized pet crematoriums, such as Rosengarten, Cremare, or Animal Tree, provide cremation services. After cremation, you can receive an urn with your pet’s ashes, which you may bury or keep at home.
- Equine Cremation: Horses and ponies can also be cremated upon request.
The cost of cremation depends on the weight of the animal.
