Pet Taxidermy

Freeze Dried Pet Preservation

At Indian Creek Taxidermy, we offer specialized pet taxidermy services to help preserve your pets, because we understand that our pets are an extension of our families. Our state-of-the-art freeze drying process allows us to create the most natural and realistic pet taxidermy that will allow you to enjoy our furry friends for many years to come.

Pet Preservation Process

Freeze dried pet preservation is a method of processing your cat or dog which will allow them to last long term at room temperature. Freeze drying is a process which takes 2-6 months depending on the weight of the pet. The species is dried under very low temperature while under vacuum. When your pet is received, it will be placed in our walk in freezer at -15°F. We do your pet in the order it was received. First, we put a small slit in the belly and remove all entrails. The next step is to remove all fat in the body cavity (fat will not freeze dry). We then bathe your pet in dawn soap. The next step is a bath of a fat dissolving liquid to help remove any fatty areas we could not get to. We then fill the body cavity back up with wood cellulose and stitch the body cavity back up. We then inject all muscle areas with embalming fluid. Next we pose your pet. Normally, in a sleeping position. We can do eyes open and other poses. Please call for different poses and pricing for such. the furry little friend is then placed in the freeze dryer for 4-6 months depending on the weight. After those months, your pet comes out and is airbrushed painted on the nose area and a few other places. After this, your pet is ready to be shipped back to you.

Water or moisture molecules in the animal being freeze dried is first frozen to a solid at a temperature of around -10°F.
Next the species is placed in the freeze dryer tank which starts at 10°F and is placed under a severe vacuum.
At this point the water molecules will migrate to the ice traps which are at a temperature of -60°F.
This process occurs as the species is raised to 10°F in the tank (still a freezing temperature). Because the system is under vacuum, the water molecules migrate to and are collected in the ice trap, due to pressure difference of 10°F to -60°F.
The water molecules are removed in the frozen critter which are first frozen to a solid and then removed directly by turning the ice into vapor.
This is done under vacuum and without having to pass through the liquid phase.

Pet Taxidermy Cost

Our prices are based on weight and the pose requested for your pet. Prices range from $1000 for a 10 lb. pet up to $7000 for a 75 lb. dog. We ask all potential customers to call us for exact pricing.

How is the freezing drying process better than conventional taxidermy?

In conventional taxidermy all that is used from your pet or a wild mammal is the skin or hide itself. Styrofoam forms are purchased from taxidermy supply houses and the hide is pickled, tanned and the glued and sown up over the form. Pets are not a good choice for conventional taxidermy. First of all forms that look like your pet are just not available.

In freeze drying preservation, everything except the entrails remain in your pet. It is the only way to preserve your pet for forever.

Prepare For Pet Preservation

First of all, if you know your pet is going to have to be euthanized by your vet, it is a good idea to have your pet groomed. Remember what goes in the Freeze Drier is what comes out. And we realize that is not always possible. It is not imperative.

Next, as you prepare your pet for shipping, be sure to coordinate all details with us so we are ready to receive your pet as well.

Purchase a regular cooler like you would take on an outing large enough to accommodate your pet. Be sure your pet has been fully frozen for at least two days. Schedule 2-day delivery shipping for a Monday or Tuesday shipping date. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday shipping dates during the winter months. Next day shipping during the summer months. On the day of shipping, purchase about 3-5 pounds of dry ice. Place your pet on a blanket and wrap up. Place your pet in the container you have and put the dry ice on top. Be sure and secure with strapping tape and take to your shipper.

Ongoing Care

After receiving your pet back, caring for your preserved pet is not complicated. Simply display your pet in your home where ever you want. The only thing to remember is not to get your preserved pet wet. We recommend gently running your vacuum cleaner over it every year just to keep down dust.