Saying goodbye
Most of us will outlive our pets, which means that sooner or later you will have to say goodbye to what has become a cherished friend and much-loved companion.
Often a pet’s health declines gradually rather than suddenly. Sadly, it is uncommon for your pet to pass away peacefully in their sleep and you may find yourself in a position where you need to assess your pet’s quality of life.
This process is never easy, but our team is here to help you through this difficult period.
It can be difficult to know when is the right time to consider saying goodbye to your pet. Your veterinary team will be able to help you answer questions such as:
- Do they still enjoy interacting with family members?
- Do they enjoy walks or exercise?
- Do they seem settled when they rest or are they restless?
- Is their appetite good or has it seriously diminished?
- Are there any obvious signs of ill health, such as vomiting?
It may be helpful to speak to friends or family members, too. You know your pet better than anyone, however speaking to someone who is more removed can help you view things like this objectively.
What to do if you’re concerned
If you are concerned that your pet is showing any signs of illness or think it might be time to say goodbye, it is best to arrange an appointment with the practice.
There may be investigations or treatment options available to improve your pet’s quality of life. However, if euthanasia is the most suitable and compassionate option, we can guide you through the decision making process and ensure your pet has a peaceful, dignified euthanasia.
Putting your pet to sleep, or euthanasia, is a very difficult decision, and we understand how challenging it can be. However, in certain circumstances, it is the kindest option available to prevent your pet from suffering.
Some illnesses and injuries are beyond our abilities to cure or manage adequately, and if your pet is unable to get better or maintain a good quality of life we may recommend euthanasia.
We always have you and your pet at the centre of end-of-life discussions, and our vets and nurses are happy to talk and listen as much as you need.
What happens afterwards?
Once the decision to euthanise your pet has been taken, you will be asked to sign a form giving your consent for the procedure and informing us what arrangements you would like for your pet’s body afterwards.
The procedure itself does not take long. Once your pet is made comfortable on a bed or in their basket an overdose of anaesthetic drug is injected, usually into the vein in their front leg. The injection is painless and works very quickly, usually within seconds.
Pets are unconscious and when they pass away they have no awareness. Within a few moments, their breathing and heart rate slow down and then stop altogether.
Occasionally, normal reflex actions such as passing urine or faeces, muscle tremors or gasping may occur. These are a natural part of the process, and your pet will be completely unaware and will not feel any pain or discomfort.
You may choose to be with your pet during and after the procedure or you may not wish to be present. Whichever you choose, we will always do all we can to ensure you and your pet are as comfortable as possible.
Can the procedure happen at my home?
We can also sometimes arrange home visits for euthanasia. Ask a member of the team for more information.
Once your pet has passed away, our team will give you time to say goodbye in private. If you wish to take your pet home for burial, you are able to do this and if you need assistance to get your pet to your car we can provide this.
We work with a local company called Craven Pet Crematorium to provide a compassionate cremation service and a fitting memorial for your pet.
For their full range of caskets, memorials and keepsakes please speak to a member of our team in the practice. We will always do our best to cater for any alternative arrangements.
With the help of Pet Cremation Services, we arrange for them to collect your pet from the surgery.
After a difficult or traumatic event, it can be useful to process or speak about your feelings.
Compassion Understood is a service which provides support for pet owners before, during and after a bereavement, to help you to reach the best decision and to cope with your pet’s passing.
This service works with veterinary professionals and specialist pet loss experts to help make a difficult time more bearable.
To find out more about Compassion Understood and how they can help you, visit their website or speak to a member of our team in practice.
The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service support line (0800 096 6606) also runs from 8.30am to 8.30pm. They can also be contacted via email at [email protected]).
