Human-animal burials in Saxony-Anhalt see low demand

In Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, a niche service allowing for joint human-animal burials has been available for about a decade, yet it has seen very limited uptake. Cemeteries in cities like Aschersleben and Magdeburg offer this option for pet owners who wish to remain connected to their animal companions even after death.

In Aschersleben, the municipal cemetery has offered combined burials since 2016. André Könnecke, the operational manager, stated that "so far, there have been 20 human-animal burials in the separate grave field." He emphasized the cemetery's commitment to enabling such arrangements, noting, "But we want to enable things, not forbid them." The primary condition for this type of burial is the cremation of the animal, with its ashes then placed in the same grave plot as its owner.

Magdeburg introduced a similar option at its Buckau cemetery in 2017, but the response has been even more subdued. According to city spokesperson Michael Reif, "A total of three usage rights for grave sites have been granted, the first in 2019." In both cities, there are no specific restrictions on the type of animal, as long as it can be cremated. The order of death is also flexible; pets can be buried before their owners, or a pet's ashes can be added to a grave after the owner's passing.

The cost for a 20-year grave site usage right in Magdeburg is approximately 1,635 euros, excluding additional fees for funeral services or cemetery chapel use. Demand in other areas, such as Bitterfeld and Wolfen, is reportedly even lower, highlighting the limited appeal of this specialized burial practice in the region.