Learn How to Prepare for Pet Loss
Although the death of a pet is never pleasant, planning for it might help alleviate your mental and emotional distress. Here are four methods to prepare for – and grieve for – the loss of your pet.
#1: Measure your pet’s quality of life
Your pet cannot tell you when they are sick, but they might show signs of poor mental and physical health. You can assess your pet’s health and happiness as they age or decline from a chronic medical condition by using a quality of life scale. The quality of life scale allows you to evaluate your pet objectively and can help you determine if they are suffering.
#2: Determine a date for your pet’s euthanasia
While a pet’s untimely death relieves you of the stress of selecting when—and if—euthanasia is the right option, you may wonder if you missed your pet’s condition. On the other hand, recognizing when your pet is ready to pass on and when to schedule euthanasia is always challenging. However, keep in mind that few pets pass peacefully in their sleep, so humane euthanasia can be your last act of love for your suffering pet.
#3: Talk about how to care for your pet’s body
When your pet passes away, you may be unprepared for their aftercare. If you know the end is near, talking about how you want to care for your pet’s body might help relieve some of the burden. Cremation is a popular option, and you can choose to receive your pet’s ashes. Aquamation is also becoming more popular as an after-care alternative, but it is not yet generally available.
#4: Use grief support groups to cope with your pet’s death
As you grieve, seek out support groups in addition to family and friends. Many schools of veterinary medicine have pet loss support hotlines, and there are numerous pet grief groups on social media that may be suitable for your specific scenario. You never have to go through grief alone.
If your pet’s health or happiness is declining, contact our staff for assistance in determining their quality of life and planning for their final death.