When Is Rendering an Option for Livestock Remains?

While burial and cremation are among the most common options for handling deceased livestock, there are certain scenarios where rendering may be preferred or even required. The rendering process involves transporting animal remains to a permitted facility for recycling into products like pet food, fertilizer, or other materials.

At Graver Horse Removal, we are licensed and equipped to facilitate rendering services for horses, cattle, and other livestock when appropriate based on governing regulations or client preferences. Here’s a look at some key situations where rendering deceased animals becomes an option:

Disease Control Measures

If a farm or facility needs to depopulate livestock herds due to a major disease outbreak, remains are classified as a biological hazard that must be rendered to prevent potential contamination spread. Regulatory bodies may mandate this method of disposal as a biosecurity precaution for certain serious or zoonotic pathogens.

Large-Scale Mortality Events

In cases of mass casualty events like overturned livestock truck accidents, tornados, floods, or other natural disasters that result in high death tolls, rendering allows for efficient bulk disposal through controlled incineration at approved rendering plants.

Owner Cost Considerations

The rendering process can sometimes be more affordable than cremation, especially when dealing with higher volume cattle remains. Some livestock owners may opt for this option simply due to rendering’s lower comparative costs.

Location Limitations

Certain areas prohibit livestock burials outright due to zoning laws, soil compositions, or environmental regulations regarding potential groundwater contamination risks. Rendering provides a legal alternative for owners who lack viable burial sites.

Facility Policies & Guidelines

A number of corporate farms, slaughterhouses, animal sanctuaries and other high-volume livestock operations mandate that all deceased animals are rendered as part of their standard biosecurity protocols and waste stream practices.

Whether burial, cremation or rendering is the most fitting solution, Graver Horse Removal always treats the remains of your livestock companions with the utmost care and dignity they deserve. We’re happy to further discuss rendering procedures and regulations if this option is something you’d like to consider.