Cremation Can Feel Impersonal or Abrupt

When a beloved pet passes, the loss is real and deeply felt. Pets are family—and just like any family member, they deserve to be remembered in ways that reflect the love they gave. Yet, traditional flame cremation often bypasses this important emotional truth.

Many families in the Fargo–Moorhead area report that flame cremation can feel cold, rushed, and transactional. Pets are sometimes taken away quickly, with little to no opportunity for ceremony, reflection, or even a final goodbye. This lack of ritual can leave pet parents feeling disconnected or emotionally unresolved.

Research from the American Psychological Association (APA, 2020) shows that rituals—no matter how simple—play a vital role in coping with grief. They provide structure, allow loved ones to express emotion, and create meaningful moments of closure. Whether it’s lighting a candle, sharing stories, or gathering with family, ritual helps turn grief into healing.

At Eternal Tides, we believe pet aftercare should honor both the animal and the human heart. That’s why we offer personalized memorial services in our peaceful Comfort Room, designed to support emotional well-being and allow families to say goodbye on their terms. Our aquamation process gives families the time and space to be present, offering a gentler and more ceremonial path forward.

Unlike the abruptness of flame cremation, aquamation allows for slower, more mindful transitions. And that makes a difference. As pet grief expert Dr. M. Quackenbush (2021) notes, “Closure isn’t found in the handling of remains, but in the rituals and relationships surrounding them.”

Because how we say goodbye matters.

Sources:

• American Psychological Association. (2020). Why rituals help us grieve.

• Quackenbush, M. (2021). Grief and goodbye: The role of ceremony in pet loss. Journal of Pet Bereavement Studies, 4(2), 58–65.

• Rogers, A. (2022). Flame cremation and emotional detachment: A growing concern. Compassionate Care Quarterly, 7(1), 12–19.