What is Freeze-Dried Pet Preservation?

When it comes time to say goodbye to a beloved pet, the process is never easy. No one wants to be placed in a position where they will be forced to see their four-legged friend for the last time. That’s where freeze-dried pet preservation comes into play. This gives the pet owner the perfect chance to maintain a long-term connection with their loved ones, so that they never have to say their final goodbyes.

What is Freeze-Dried Pet Preservation?
[image: pexels by sergio souza]

Those who wish to learn more about the process and the steps that are going to be taken in these instances are urged to read on. Thanks to the methods that are used, it has never been easier for a pet owner to maintain a more lasting connection with the animals that they hold dear. The following guide gives pet owners the chance to find out more about the answers to their most common questions:

How Does Freeze-Dried Pet Preservation Actually Work?

This is a fair question and one that is asked fairly often by prospective clientele. The process is actually much simpler than most pet owners realize. All of the moisture is removed from the tissues inside of the animal’s body, while they are left fully intact. Some may be wondering how is this is even possible but the science is fairly easy to understand. The body of the pet is exposed to a low-pressure vacuum over the course of the freeze-drying period.

The tissues are dried in a highly controlled environment, which makes it easier for the animal to avoid decay. The tissues remain intact, which allows the animal’s natural state to be preserved over a much longer period of time. This is especially appealing to pet owners who wish that their deceased loved one could maintain all of their features, without taking on an unnatural look.

How Long Does The Process Take?

Be prepared for the process to take a sizable amount of time. This is not something that can be turned around within a day or two. That is because the utmost care is put into the process. The pet is treated with the proper level of sensitivity and handled by professionals who are highly experienced. It is very important for pet owners to work with the most professional taxidermists in their region. Companies like Animal Family Pet Preservation have an excellent track record of providing reliable taxidermy services to their customers.

As for the specific amount of time that the process will take? This is going to depend on the size of the animal. A smaller cat or dog can be preserved over the course of four to five months. Conversely, larger pets could take over six months to fully preserve. There is no set time that can be chosen in these instances and the owner should be prepared to put their trust in the taxidermist. Bear in mind that every pet is unique.

How Does The Pet Look When The Process Is Complete?

For many pet owners, the best part of this process is the outcome. Instead of being forced to lay a beloved pet to rest, they are preserved in the most realistic form possible. In fact, the best taxidermists are able to provide a final product that is based on the specific requests of the pet owner. Pictures can be sent so that the taxidermist has a better idea of the preferred poses that the owner may want. In a best-case scenario, the pet will look so realistic that the owner cannot even tell that they passed on.

Do The Results Actually Last?

If the freeze-dried pet is properly cared for and maintained by the owner, the results should last a lifetime in most instances. The pet must be cleaned often, making sure that no dust is given the chance to gather. Stains should also be avoided at all costs but this is something that typically goes without saying. There is also no need to worry about the fear of damage when petting the animal. Even if owners would like to carry them, this is not going to be a problem.

Can The Steps of the Freeze-Drying Process Be Outlined?

Many owners may want to know the nitty-gritty when it comes to the freeze-drying process, which is understandable. To get started, the moisture molecules inside of the animal are frozen solid at a low temperature. Once this step is complete, the pet is placed in a freeze dryer tank that is set to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (still well below freezing). A powerful vacuum is used at this time as well.

The water molecules will then migrate to the ice traps, which have been set at the frigid temperature of 60 degrees below zero (Fahrenheit). The process continues as the temperature is raised within the tank. The ice trap provides the water and moisture molecules with a helpful place to go. The pressure difference between the two aforementioned temperatures is what allows for easier migration.

This removes the water molecules from the pet, as the ice turns into vapor. This is all done underneath the vacuum, as there is no need to pass through the liquid stage. All of these steps are handled by highly trained professionals who have taken care of numerous pets before. There is no need to worry about any inexperienced staff members taking on the task. Each pet is treated with the utmost care.

Now that all of the most important questions have been answered, it is time for pet owners to prepare themselves accordingly. It is a good idea for pet owners to have their animals properly groomed before they are euthanized at the vet’s office. This ensures that the preservation process goes as smoothly as possible, as what goes into the freeze dryer is what will come back out.

The preservation process should always be handled by a compassionate taxidermist with a wealth of experience to lean on. This ensures that the preservation will be hassle-free. All additional questions will be addressed in a timely manner and all additional details are coordinated ahead of time.