When burying a deceased animal, many individuals use lime to help reduce odor and discourage scavengers at the burial site. Finding the correct product is important, as the term “lime” refers to several chemical compounds with distinct properties and safety considerations. Understanding the specific type of lime needed, where to purchase it, and how to apply it safely are the primary steps in this procedure.
Understanding Lime: Agricultural vs. Hydrated
The term “lime” refers to various calcium-based compounds, each with different chemical properties. The safest and most recommended product for animal burial is agricultural lime, or “ag lime,” which is primarily composed of calcium carbonate. This substance is finely ground limestone, minimally reactive, and widely used as a soil amendment to adjust pH levels.
Agricultural lime is non-caustic and does not generate heat when it contacts water or organic matter. This gentle nature makes it the preferred choice for private animal burial, posing the lowest risk to the handler and the environment. Its main function is to temporarily raise the soil’s pH, which neutralizes odors associated with decay and deters scavengers. Studies show that lime can actually delay decomposition in the short term.
Other forms of lime, such as quicklime (calcium oxide) and hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide), should be avoided. Quicklime is highly reactive and generates substantial heat when exposed to moisture, making it dangerous to handle and potentially harmful to the environment. Hydrated lime is less reactive but remains a strong alkali that is caustic to skin and eyes.
Retail Sources and Purchase Considerations
Agricultural lime is the easiest type to purchase, often labeled as “Ag Lime,” “Garden Lime,” or “Barn Lime.” These products are readily available at retailers catering to home, garden, and farm needs. Farm supply stores, such as Tractor Supply Co. or Rural King, routinely stock large bags and sometimes offer bulk quantities.
Large hardware and home improvement centers, including Home Depot and Lowes, also carry bagged garden lime, typically in 40- to 50-pound bags. Local garden centers and landscape supply yards often have the product, especially during the spring and fall seasons. When purchasing, look for the chemical name calcium carbonate on the label to ensure you have the safest product.
Agricultural lime is sold as a fine powder or in pelletized form. The powdered form reacts more quickly due to its greater surface area, which is beneficial for immediate odor control. Pelletized lime is easier to spread and creates less dust, but it takes slightly longer to dissolve and become effective in the soil.
Safe Handling and Burial Procedures
Before burial, check local and state regulations, as ordinances dictate minimum burial depths and setback distances from property lines and water sources. These laws prevent groundwater contamination and public nuisance. Failure to comply can result in fines or the forced exhumation of the remains.
For safety, always wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask when handling powdered lime. Even agricultural lime can irritate the respiratory system and eyes. Choose the burial site strategically, avoiding areas with high seasonal water tables or flood-prone zones, since contamination is a primary environmental concern.
A general guideline for burial depth is to excavate a grave deep enough to allow for a minimum of two to three feet of compacted soil to cover the remains. This depth is sufficient to discourage scavengers from disturbing the site. The grave should be situated at least 100 feet away from any private well, and often 250 feet or more from public water sources or surface waters.
The proper technique involves creating a layer both beneath and directly above the animal’s body. Sprinkle a layer of lime across the bottom of the grave before placing the remains inside. Once the animal is situated, spread a generous layer of lime to entirely cover the remains before adding the soil backfill. This layering technique maximizes the lime’s ability to absorb moisture and manage odors.