It’s not something we ever want to think about, but for some pet owners, there may come a time in their beloved pets’ lives when we find we are struggling to ease their pain and suffering, says PDSA veterinary surgeon Lynne James.
Despite vets’ best efforts, unfortunately, some injuries, illness, and disease are just too severe to be cured, so making the difficult choice to have a pet put to sleep and say goodbye can be the last kindness you can do for them.
Letting them slip away quietly and peacefully when their pain can no longer be managed is an act of kindness to a much-loved companion. It’s a truly difficult decision that we never want to have to make as pet owners. However, it can be a comfort to know that letting them go is the right choice for your pet at that time.
How to know when it's the right time to put your pet to sleep
It can be hard to know when the right time is to put your pet to sleep, and this is a discussion to have with your vet about your pet’s quality of life.
Although this may well be a difficult conversation to have, it’s important to talk about your pet and think about how their wellbeing might be affected.
Factor in things like, do they still do all of the things they love to do with ease? Can they eat, drink, go to the toilet, go for short walks or play? Are they still wanting to interact with you? This decision is unique to each pet and their owner.
Don’t feel alone in this situation - your vet will provide support and guidance through this difficult time. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions or to let them know any concerns for your pet.
Your vet will want you to be as comfortable as you can be, that you are making the right choice for your pet, so they will be happy to address any concerns you may have and will discuss all of the available options with you.
If you know your pet may not have long left, you might want to spend some quality time doing something both you and your pet enjoy doing together. Whether this is just extra time snuggled up on a sofa, enjoying some of their favourite treats, or visiting walks they’ve enjoyed in the past, if your dog feels up to it.
Should you stay with your pet when they're put to sleep?
In your pet’s final moments, we’d recommend letting them be surrounded by familiar things they love, this could be their bed or blanket, as well as a favourite toy, and not forgetting, their favourite people, but only if you feel up to staying with them.
Saying goodbye isn’t easy, so know it’s ok if you don’t think you can stay in the room for your pets' final moments. The vet team will be on hand either way to ensure your pet is comfortable.
If you want to remain with your pet, it’s advised to try to be as calm as you can to provide them with a quiet, and comfortable environment. However, it is an understandably emotional time.
As much as you want to make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible, the loss of a pet can be extremely hard for an owner. It can be a time of mixed emotions leading up to and following euthanasia and the loss of your pet.
How to deal with grief of losing a pet
They have been a special companion and member of the family, and coming to terms with this loss can be very hard. Losing a pet can be overwhelming, as our pets are such huge parts of our lives, their loss can weigh heavy on our hearts and experiencing strong feelings of grief is completely normal.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve the loss of our pets but if you are struggling, please reach out for help.
More information about dealing with the loss of a pet, can be found on PDSA’s website.
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