What Happens to Your Pet’s Grave When You Move?
When we bury a beloved pet in the backyard, we imagine they’ll rest there forever. But what happens when you have to move?
The average American moves over 11 times in their lifetime, often for work, family, or housing costs (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023). That means even the most well-intentioned backyard grave may one day be left behind. For many families, the emotional toll of abandoning a pet’s final resting place can be unexpectedly intense—and irreversible.
Once a home is sold, the property becomes someone else’s to manage. New owners may not share your feelings or even be aware of the burial. They may landscape, build, or excavate, disturbing the grave in the process. There are no federal laws requiring homeowners to disclose pet burials, leaving remains vulnerable to damage or desecration (National Association of Realtors, 2022).
Even if you try to exhume your pet’s remains before moving, most local health departments advise against it unless done professionally, citing health risks from decomposition and euthanasia chemicals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
Choosing options such as aquamation ensures your pet’s memory travels with you. You can keep their ashes in a cherished urn, scatter them in a meaningful place, or create a memorial wherever you call home. You won’t be forced to choose between your pet’s resting place and your family’s future.
Don’t leave their memory behind. Give them a goodbye that stays with you—no matter where life takes you.
Sources
U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). Geographic mobility: Current population survey data. https://census.gov
National Association of Realtors. (2022). Disclosure obligations and property history. https://nar.realtor
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Safe handling of animal remains. https://cdc.gov
