One year ago, the Oakville & Milton Humane Society (OMHS) began the delicate and respectful process of excavating our pet cemetery. As South Oakville prepares for redevelopment, OMHS is planning for a larger shelter at a new location. In looking to the future, it was extremely important to ensure the remains of many beloved pets were thoughtfully cared for. We enlisted the expertise of Dr. Tracy Rogers and her team from the University of Toronto, and communicated to the many pet owners, and the public, of the project. At the one-year mark, we are pleased to provide an update on our progress.
The meticulous manner in which forensic anthropology students excavate each plot in the pet cemetery clearly shows their respect and passion for the project. They’re animal lovers, each forming a unique connection to the remains and artifacts uncovered. Under Dr. Tracy Rogers’ supervision, the students will be working for 16 weeks to complete the project by the end of the summer. Now at the one-year mark, the excavation is an important step in preparing for the future relocation of the OMHS.
Of the 657 recorded burial plots, over half have been excavated. The team hand digs up to 40 plots per week using humane methods employed by archaeologists, and refers to each pet by name if known. They work with a delicate attention to detail, using various tools to ensure each plot is handled with the utmost care. The love their families had for them is evident in the way that each pet was laid to rest, many buried with favourite toys and blankets, or tokens of affection.
“It’s heartwarming to see the love each owner had for their pet and reminds us of how strong the human-animal bond is,” shared Beverly Fortner, executive assistant and board coordinator. “The team has taken great pride in the care and attention given to each individual animal, and ensuring their remains are cared for moving forward.”
All remains, artifacts, and memorial plaques are catalogued and stored in a secure location, which provides a unique learning opportunity for the forensic anthropology students. While cataloguing, they are able to examine the remains to determine things like age, sex, and any signs of degenerative illness. These skills are an important part of their studies, and rare to experience firsthand. The students are also learning how the environment plays a part, examining the soil, clay, and water tables. An on-site lab has been established, allowing many steps of the project to be completed in the same location.
As each pet is excavated, owners have chosen to have remains returned to them, or to stay in the care of OMHS. All remains that stay in storage will be memorialized once a new location is secured. Our goal of providing the utmost care and respect to each pet will continue through to their final resting place.
OMHS continues to actively search for a new location for the creation of a much-needed new and expanded sheltering facility. The needs of our communities have grown, the demand for support services continues to increase, and the opportunity to bring people and pets together is incredibly important for future generations of pet lovers. While we are in the early stages of this journey, we are so excited to share it with you.
Read our Pet Cemetery Excavation Q&A.
