Crossroads: Saying Goodbye to a Pet is Never Easy
If we had our druthers, we would hold on to each and every pet forever. We make such powerful connections with our pets, it’s difficult and painful to accept that they, too, are on a journey toward the end of life.
In spite of worrisome signs of pain, sickness, and suffering, pet owners want to hope for a change or a little more time with their best friends, understanding that saying goodbye to a pet is the last stop on the path together.
No Decision Larger
For many families, the decision to say goodbye to a pet comes after successive days of suffering. A quality of life summary will include rating the following:
- Pain level
- Breathing ability
- Eating and drinking
- Incontinence
- Self grooming
- Mobility
It’s not uncommon for a pet to have a low score regarding the above, but to simultaneously express interest in those around him or her. This can make it tricky to weigh in on the quality of life, but when bad days outnumber the good or okay ones, end of life care should be considered.
A Compassionate End
A final gesture of love, caring, and compassion is to end a beloved pet’s suffering – but that doesn’t mean saying goodbye to a pet isn’t heartbreaking. Our staff members understand that pet owners need help with this decision, and we are here to work alongside you and your family.
An honest veterinary evaluation of the quality of life can offer incredible insight to a grieving pet owner, and may make the choice easier to bear.
Saying goodbye to a pet is never easy, but when it’s time you can rest assured that you are making the most humane decision for your four-legged friend.
Seeking Support After Saying Goodbye to a Pet
After a pet’s passing, it can be easy to forget about your own needs. Pet loss can be devastating, but it’s important to try and find the support you need. You are not alone; there are others out there that share your profound sense of loss.
Please check out our library for helpful links to articles for grieving pet owners, and let us know if you need additional resources.
Moving Forward
Saying goodbye to a pet provides an opportunity to realize and share just how important the bond was to you. Perhaps you could host a memorial service that brings together family members, friends, and neighbors. You could all share a story about your pet, or express the ways your pet made a difference in your lives.
Likewise, a lasting memorial, such as planting a tree or creating a collage, can help preserve your pet’s memory and ease your pain.
All of us at Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital are here to help your pet through this (and every) phase of life. We welcome your questions or concerns any day of the week.