As of March 1st, a new law in Russia prohibits the burial of pets, classifying them as “biological waste” that must be cremated. Illegal burials will result in fines. A pet cemetery near Saratov offers cremation services as an alternative, providing owners a place to memorialize their animals.

Anatoly Sergeev, one of the cemetery’s founders, secured land registration after 2.5 years of navigating permits and approvals. He highlighted the challenges of establishing the cemetery, including adhering to regulations regarding distance from settlements, water bodies, and obtaining clearances from various authorities, even airports, despite the crematorium’s small size. The endeavor required significant investment, including fees for sanitary and epidemiological assessments.

The cemetery provides a respectful environment for grieving pet owners. It resembles a peaceful glade, equipped with amenities like a waiting area with a fireplace and a space for memorial services. The cost of cremation starts at 1,500 rubles, varying based on the animal’s weight. Individual cremation services and at-home veterinarian euthanasia are also available. Owners can bring their pets’ remains or arrange for them to be collected.

Sergeev recounted stories of the diverse animals buried, from common pets like dogs and cats to more unusual cases like a Puma and even a magpie with painted claws. He emphasized the need for such a service, noting the previous illegality of pet burials and the discovery of unauthorized cemeteries that were later destroyed. The cemetery leases its land for 49 years and features two crematories capable of reaching 750 degrees Celsius.

The site features graves adorned with personal mementos like collars, food bowls, and toys, bearing heartfelt inscriptions. While many owners choose to take home urns with their pets’ ashes, others conduct memorial services at the cemetery. Sergeev also recalled emotional moments with pet owners, particularly women, who often cried and expressed deep affection for their animals.