HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

After seven years of extensive processing and overcoming numerous bureaucratic hurdles, Malaga is on the brink of realising its ambition to establish the first publicly owned pet cemetery in Spain.

The Environmental Sustainability Commission of the Malaga City Council has recently given the green light for the final bureaucratic steps necessary to launch this novel funeral service within Parcemasa, bringing a long-awaited solution for pet owners seeking to provide a dignified resting place for their beloved animal companions.

Penélope Gómez, the councillor in charge of spearheading this pioneering initiative, highlighted the intricate nature of the undertaking, primarily stemming from the fact that municipal jurisdiction over animal cremation and burial facilities was not a recognised mandate within the local governance structure. Additionally, Parcemasa's current corporate mission did not encompass the provision of such services, demanding an essential adjustment to its governing statutes.

One of the key milestones in this endeavour was the unanimous approval of the modification of Parcemasa's statutes. This alteration expanded the company's corporate objectives to include funeral services, cremations, and animal burials. The consensus was reached with the support of various political parties, including PP, PSOE, Vox, and Con Málaga. Notably, these parties also endorsed the initiation of a comprehensive reform of Parcemasa's statutes, underlining their commitment to seeing this project through.

The Malaga City Council is now setting its sights on a swift realisation of the pet cemetery, with plans to open its doors before the end of the year. The physical installation is already complete, with the remaining timeline primarily comprising the necessary bureaucratic procedures. A critical step in this process involves a one-month public exhibition period, during which any objections or concerns about the project can be raised.

This pioneering pet cemetery in Spain represents a substantial investment of 1,011,980.95 euros. The facility boasts a citizen service building, encompassing a reception area, administrative office, veterinary office, and restroom facilities. Additionally, it features a crematorium and a farewell room for mourning families. Outside, a green space has been designated for the deposit of ashes, ensuring a serene final resting place for cherished pets.

Beyond cremations and burials, the cemetery will offer a range of auxiliary services, including the transportation of deceased animals, the organisation of farewell ceremonies, rental options for niches and columbariums, and assistance with the deregistration of pets.

In a parallel development, the Malaga City Council has taken steps to address the high demand for pet cremation and burial services by modifying local bylaws. This change allows for the provision of these services at the city's cemetery, managed by Parcemasa.

A fee structure has been established and was approved by the environment committee on Monday, September 18. Cremation costs vary based on the weight of the pet, and burial services available at a reasonable rate, with the option to pay annually.

The approved prices show that the cremation of pets weighing less than 30kg will cost 170 euros, and those weighing more than 30kg will cost 190 euros. The burial of pets, under or over 30kg, for 10 years will cost 250 euros, which can be paid annually of 25 euros. However, some opposition voices have raised concerns about the clarity of these pricing details, calling for greater transparency.

As the project progresses, it's evident that Malaga is close to opening Spain's first publicly owned pet cemetery. This facility will provide a respectful and compassionate option for saying goodbye to beloved pets. With the possibility of it becoming operational as soon as December, Malaga's pet owners will soon have access to this essential service, offering comfort during times of grief.

Sources

https://www.elperiodico.com/es/sociedad/20230918/primer-cementerio-publico-animales-espana-malaga-92257583
https://www.surinenglish.com/malaga/cremation-burial-pet-cemetery-malaga-20230918153153-nt.html

Image Credit: Parcemasa