Dignified farewell for pets: Crematorium for animals to be set up in Mangaluru

City residents who faced the dilemma about how and where to cremate their beloved pets can now find relief since the Mangaluru City Corporation has decided to allocate land within the Nandigudde crematorium for animal cremations.

A 20-cents area within the Nandigudde crematorium has been identified for this purpose, and approval has been obtained from the municipal council. The project is expected to start soon with allocated funds.

Currently, the city lacks proper facilities for the cremation of animals. Those with large properties conduct cremations within their residence premises, while apartment dwellers and those with limited space face significant difficulties. Animal lovers have been demanding a designated area within the city for animal cremations for many years.

Previously, there were plans to establish an animal crematorium in Kettikal, Thiruvailu village adjacent to the planned public crematorium. An allocation of Rs 1.50 crore was made in the 2024-25 budget for this purpose. However, due to the increased demand for an urban location, the first phase of construction will take place within the city limits, officials said.

Current Cremation Practices

More than 40% of city apartment dwellers own dogs and cats. Small homes also have pets. While veterinary care is sought during illness, cremation poses a significant challenge upon death. Some request friends with private land to bury their pets, while many reluctantly dispose of the bodies with municipal waste, which sometimes leads to staff refusing to collect them.

Despite emotional bonds, pet lovers struggle to provide a dignified farewell. The central animal welfare organization has recommended constructing animal crematoriums in all cities to ensure honorable burials for pets.

Kateel Dinesh Pai, a member of the Animal Welfare Association, expressed, “All cities should have animal crematoriums. Pets that have been lovingly cared for should be buried with respect. The construction of a crematorium in Nandigudde by the corporation is commendable.”

Sudheer Shetty Kannur, MCC Mayor stated, “Even mute animals deserve a respectful cremation. The demand for an animal crematorium within the city has been strong among pet lovers. Accordingly, land has been identified at the Nandigudde crematorium, and the work will commence shortly.”

Translated from a Kannada article by Santhosh Monteiro