How long has Alkaline Hydrolysis been in use?

Alkaline hydrolysis was developed and patented in 1888 by Amos Herbert Hanson, a farmer who was looking for a way to make fertilizer from animal bodies. In 1993, the first commercial system was installed at Albany Medical College to cremate deceased human beings. The process continued to be adopted by universities and hospitals with donated body programs over the next ten years. The process was first used in the funeral industry in 2011 by two different funeral homes – one in Ohio and one in Florida.

To date, 28 states in America have legalised Alkaline Hydrolysis for humans, as have Canada, the UK & NSW in Australia. Globally, the legalisation of this environmentally friendly process for human use has been slow. Pet crematories, however, are under different rules and have adopted the process widely in America, Canada, UK, Australia and now New Zealand.

What kind of animals can you accommodate?

Cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs and exotics weighing under 100kgs

Does this process boil or use acid?

NO. A water cremation uses a catalyst called alkali, which is the chemical opposite of an acid. Alkalis are made from sodium and potassium salts to breakdown the tissue. It is a truly dignified, gentle and most environmentally friendly end of life solution developed for pet or human remains to date.

Are the Alkalis used in this process safe for the environment?

Yes. The water-based process uses a solution of 95% water and 5% alkali. The alkali used in this process is one of 2 alkalis used in the production of biodiesel, common cosmetics, soap, body washes and shaving creams to name a few.

What happens to the water?

Water is returned to the ecosystem via the normal wastewater treatment facility. Just as all veterinary preparation rooms, surgeries (hospital & funeral homes) do. The water cremation process produces a completely sterile solution of amino acids, sugars, nutrients, salts, soap in a water solution. These are the by-products of natural decomposition.

Are the powdered ashes safe to handle?

Yes, they are 100% safe, pathogen and disease free. The ash that is returned to the family is simply bone mineral, or calcium phosphate.

Will you provide a home pick up service?

A transfer service from your home to our crematory is available during working hours. After hours will incur a transfer fee and $1.16 per km outside a 10k radius.

Can you provide a pet funeral or memorial service?

We do provide funeral and memorial services on request. Please contact us for further discussion around service details and prices.

How long does it take?

A water cremation is a gentle and natural process . It can take up to 8-10 hours.

Does your equipment use pressure?

We decided not to use a pressurized system as over time the combination of high alkalinity, heat and pressure can alter the structure of stainless steel.

Do we get all the skeletal remains back?

Yes, 20% more than from a traditional flame cremation.

How do I know I am getting my own pets ashes back?

Our Alkaline Hydrolysis machine has individual compartments that each pet will be placed into. These compartments are attended to individually with care and precision. We can personally assure you that the skeletal remains that are returned to you will be those of your pet.

Are there any other water cremation services in NZ?

No. Pet Angel Wings are an innovative forward thinking company that saw the need to explore alternative end-of-life solutions that were eco-friendly and energy efficient.

Can you embalm a pet?

Yes, we can, if requested. Embalming animals is a new practice. Bearing in mind your pet will not be with you forever, but an extended time only. Sadly, we all have to say good-bye at some stage.

Do you have a physical shop where I can see the memorial products?

Yes. The majority of our memorial products can be viewed at 27 Queen Street, Masterton.