Thank you for choosing Chamisa Aquamation Services

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 We are so sorry for your loss. During this difficult time, please know that we are here to support you with compassion, respect, and care. If you're awaiting pickup or preparing for transport to our facility, the following steps will help ensure your beloved companion is preserved with dignity until we can take over their care.

Temporary At-Home Storage Instructions:

1. Choose a Quiet, Cool Location
Select a peaceful spot in your home that is out of direct sunlight and as cool as possible. A basement or cool room is ideal.

2. Wrap with Love and Care
Gently wrap your pet in a clean blanket, towel, or soft sheet. If available, you may wish to place them inside a large plastic bag or a waterproof container for added protection.

3. Cooling
If several hours will pass before transport or pickup:

• Place your pet on a cooling surface such as a floor with tile or linoleum.
• You may place sealed ice packs or frozen water bottles around—but not directly on—your pet to help maintain coolness.
• For extended storage (more than 6 hours), it is best to place them in a refrigerator or a designated pet mortuary cooler, if available.

4. Some changes to expect
Always handle your pet gently. 

• If rigor mortis has begun (stiffening of the body), this is a natural process. Do not try to reposition the body forcefully. 
• Stiffness/rigor- as the body starts the natural decomposition process, the muscles will become stiff for about 12 hours before softening again. Place your pet in a curled, comfortable position immediately after death.
• Odors after death are a normal process and can be detected as early as 30 minutes after passing.  These can be minimized with cooling of the remains.

5. Labeling (If Applicable)
If you were given any identification tags, cards, or documents from your veterinary clinic, keep them with your pet. This helps ensure accurate identification upon transfer to our care.

6. Burial (if Applicable)
We understand that you may want to bury your pet at home. Should you choose to do so, we recommend burying your companion at least four feet deep to prevent predators from disturbing the grave. 

We know this is an emotional time. Please don’t hesitate to call us with any questions or for guidance. We’re here for you and your beloved pet, every step of the way.