Losing family pets is never an easy process to go through.
Adrienne Tuling and her family have endured the loss of much-loved family dogs, including two over a three-month period a few years ago.
Tuling started to think more about compassionate ways to approach the end of life process for pets after losing another dog, a rescue named Lucy.
Describing Lucy as her "soul dog", Tuling said while there were other options available, she wanted to take a different approach when Lucy died.
Tuling started Evermore Compassionate Pet Aftercare last November. Using what is described as gentle water cremation, the company provides a compassionate option for pet aftercare, while providing an option that decreases the carbon footprint. With more than 25 years experience as a nurse, Tuling has experience with the grieving process and knows full well how losing a pet - often a big part of the family - can be difficult.
"I wanted her to be treated with dignity and respect as a family member."
Lucy was euthanized last Christmas Eve, and able to get that compassionate after care.
Tuling invested a considerable amount of money into her business venture. She is one of only five in Ontario and 11 in Canada using an aquamation process, which mimics what would happen naturally if a pet or human were buried. The process is sustainable and does not rely on fossil fuels. There is also a comfort room for a pet funeral of sorts, allowing Tuling to provide comfort for grieving pet owners and a chance to say a final goodbye.
"Pets are really important to me and my family and to a lot of people."
The death of a pet puts its owners under distress, Tuling said. She is happy to offer emotional support.
"A lot of times it's unexpected and you just don't know what to do. People are grateful to have someone look after things. As soon as they know that arrangements have been made, they can relax. It is what I wanted for my own pets but didn't find. It's that caring and compassion."
The Tuling family have a new puppy - Piper, one of three dogs in the home. They appreciate living through life events with a puppy.
Evermore has provided care to close to 200 pets over the company's first year.
Tuling said she wasn't looking to start a business, but knew a "better way existed".
"A lot of people feel the same way I do and appreciate having this option."
