The decline of a pet’s health is a painful reminder that time with them is limited. Whether it’s due to the progression of a disease or just a worn body, a decline in their well-being can feel like a threat to the control you’ve had over their care during your time together. As you approach the difficult decision to say goodbye to your pet, it can be an overwhelming, heartbreaking time. It’s natural to put off thinking, talking, and acting on that decision.
Making a euthanasia decision is one of the biggest responsibilities a pet’s family will ever have. Remember, the term “euthanasia” originates from the Greek words meaning “good death” which is what you’re choosing for your pet. It’s also one way to take control back from the illness or physical decline your pet is battling. However, it can be helpful to decide some of these details ahead of time, so you won’t have to make decisions that day and can, instead, be present with your pet. The goal is to minimize regrets, as you do not want to look back on that day and say, “I wish I had done this or that,” but rather you want to reflect and be able to say it was a “good” goodbye.
If you are facing the difficult, yet loving decision to humanely euthanize your pet, the following considerations are some that you can explore with your family and your veterinarian. It can be helpful to write your decisions down.
- Who will perform the euthanasia? Do you wish to take your pet to your family vet or do you want to have a veterinarian come to your home? Many areas have in-home euthanasia services that allow for families to make appointments day or night, and even weekends to say goodbye in the comfort of their homes.
- Who will be present? Do you want to be present? What about family, friends, other pets? How will you involve children in the family?
- Where will the euthanasia occur? If you are taking your pet to a clinic, inquire if there is a quiet space in their facility or perhaps an outside garden area. If you are saying goodbye at your house, consider a favorite, familiar spot, whether it is outside or indoors, and what feels good to you and your family.
- How will you create a comfortable space? Do you want to have music playing, low lights, perhaps you wish to read a poem or something similar?
- What memories do you want to create the day of the euthanasia? Is there a special place you want to visit or activity you wish to do with your pet beforehand? What final special meal or treat would your pet enjoy – cheeseburgers and fries, ice cream, even chocolate?
- What meaningful ritual do you share with your pet? Is there a special activity that is unique to your relationship and daily routine with your animal? How can you identify a ritual that can become a meaningful part of your day, your shared time with your pet, as well as something that may offer comfort when they are no longer with you?
Rituals can be a way to maintain a connection with your pet after they have passed. For example, a favorite walking path with your pup, a certain park you always visit together, a particular blanket that is their favorite to curl up on during a movie night – these rituals can be enjoyed while your animal is still with you and continued after they are gone. Walking that path, visiting that park, snuggling up with that blanket can offer you moments to cherish their memory and feel a continued connection with your lost loved one. - What will the doctor need to do and what should I expect? Ask your veterinarian to walk you through the euthanasia process as not all practices are the same. It can be good to know how the medication will be given, how fast the medication will work, and what natural body reflexes that may occur as your pet passes away. This knowledge can help you feel less apprehensive about being present for the euthanasia. If you choose not to be present, you can inquire if you can witness only the initial sedation, instead of the entire process. Share with your veterinarian any concerns or fears you may have about witnessing the euthanasia so you can talk about them and develop a comfortable plan.
- Do you want a necropsy performed on your pet? Some veterinary teaching hospitals offer a postmortem study of the body, similar to an autopsy in humans. This exam can sometimes shed light on a disease process and can teach students more about a disease. Inquire with your veterinarian if this option is available.
- How do you wish for your pet’s body to be cared for afterward? Do you want a private cremation for your pet so that you get his/her individual cremains returned to you? Do you wish to bury your pet’s body? Is there a local cemetery to contact or if it is on your property, what considerations or limitations should be identified? Do you wish to donate your pet’s body to a teaching hospital for educational purposes?
- How would you like to memorialize your pet? Do you wish to have a paw print made of your pet’s paw or keep a locket of hair? Should you save your pet’s collar?
- How will you care for yourself afterwards? Who will help support you through this time? Some families consider support groups, private counseling, and ways to honor your pet’s memory.
While these are just some suggestions, there are likely other personal details you wish to consider. The important thing is to contemplate what you want your pet’s last day with you to be like and plan from there. As these decisions are made, hopefully the time you spent planning allows even more time to spend with your pet.