Virginia woman's request to be buried with her healthy dog creates stir in pet owners community

Veterinarians and funeral homes in Virginia are rejecting the idea that pets should be buried with their owners after a recent case in which a healthy dog was euthanized so it could lie with her owner.

WWBT-TV in Richmond reports workers at one animal shelter tried to talk the executor of the estate out of the plan. They failed and the Shih Tzu mix named Emma was euthanized and cremated. The dog's ashes were placed in an urn and given to the estate's representative.

"We did suggest they could sign the dog over on numerous occasions, because it's a dog we could easily find a home for and re-home," said Carrie Jones, manager of Chesterfield Animal Services.

Dr. Kenny Lucas says while it's an emotional situation, he said his clinic won't do it.

A local organization, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, wants pet owners to know that there are alternatives.

League member Chelsea Jones noted that they have special classes to address the matter - including Estate Planning for Pets.

For more information on the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, click here.