North Carolina Funeral Law Practice Exam

Is it lawful for Myrtle to have her dog preserved and cremated with her after both of their deaths?

1. Yes, it is lawful

2. No, it is not lawful

3. Yes, but only if the dog is a registered service animal

4. No, unless specified in a will

The correct answer is: No, it is not lawful

To determine the legality of preserving and cremating a pet along with a person after death, one must consider state laws regarding human burial and cremation practices. In many jurisdictions, laws and regulations specifically govern what can and cannot be included in a burial or cremation service regarding human remains. Typically, human remains should not be mixed or interred with animal remains due to sanitation, health, and legal requirements. Therefore, the situation where Myrtle desires to have her dog preserved and cremated with her would generally contradict the legal standards that focus on the separation of human and animal remains. It is important to adhere to these regulations to ensure proper compliance with the law. The option stating that it is not lawful accurately reflects the requirements that prevent the mixing of human and animal remains in cremation or burial, highlighting the importance of following established guidelines for handling human remains.