Pets are welcome strangers that quickly become family. Their quirks and individual personality make their own space in your heart. When you experience the loss of your pet, it devastates just like losing a close friend and family member. There are some common thoughts and questions that surround pet loss that we’d like to address and hopefully extend some comfort to those facing this issue.
When is the right time to euthanize or say goodbye?
Your veterinarian is the most in tune with your pet’s physical condition. However, you spend each and every day with your pet. You know their normal and you know their pain. Try, as difficult as it may be, to think about their quality of life as unselfishly as possible. Work with your veterinarian on a timeline if needed to ease into the thought.
Should I stay during euthanasia?
Ultimately, you need to decide what’s best for your grief. Some feel it is the final act of love and loyalty. Some feel peace as they watch their loved one pass away without pain. It gives them closure. It can also be a traumatic experience for you. If you can’t handle it, your pet will most likely be in-tune with your emotions as well. It’s important to give yourself and your pet a peaceful experience. If you cannot be there, perhaps another loving family or friend can be there.
What happens after?
Arrangements must be made. The easiest is to have the clinic take care of disposal, but there may be a fee involved. The least expensive option is an at-home burial. However, there may be laws preventing this option. A pet cemetery is also an option that will provide a place to return and visit. Costs may vary, but cremation is an option that may coincide as well.
Security National Life offers a Family and Pet Protection with all of their policies at no cost to you. You will have up to $150 available to help with the costs associated with losing your pet. We understand the bonds that develop over time and we seek to ease your burden, even if we can’t take it away entirely. For more information, please fill out our contact form with questions.
Is it normal to feel so much pain and grief?
YES. Grieving over the loss of a beloved pet is entirely normal and natural. The bonds that form are unique to you and your pet! The naysayers don’t fully comprehend the scope of your bond, so who are they to say? Grieve over your loss of friendship, comfort, and unconditional love.
How will this grief affect those around me, including my other pets?
Just as you have developed a strong bond, so have the other family members and other pets. It’s important to tailor the story to the age of your family members. Young children may not understand the entire process of death and though they feel the loss they may not be equipped with the right emotional tools to grieve and heal. Try to make it an open topic of discussion and share good memories with one another. Your other pets will notice the change. It is not a good idea to get a new pet right away as your current pet may reject the new addition. New bonds form with time.
