Tips for Preparing For the Loss of Your Pet
Losing a pet is always hard, but taking time to prepare beforehand can make it easier to cope with the emotional and mental toll. Here are four ways to prepare for and process your pet’s passing.
#1: Assess your pet’s quality of life
Pets can’t communicate when they are not feeling good, but they can show signs of both mental and physical problems. Using a quality of life scale, you can assess your pet’s health and happiness as they age or deteriorate from a chronic medical condition. You can use the quality of life scale to assess your pet objectively and decide if they are in pain or discomfort.
#2: Decide when to schedule your pet’s euthanasia
Losing a pet unexpectedly may make you wonder if you missed any signs of illness. On the other hand, deciding when to schedule euthanasia is always a tough call. However, it’s important to remember that very few pets pass away peacefully on their own. So, putting your pet to sleep through humane euthanasia can be the kindest thing to do for your pet who is in pain.
#3: Discuss how to care for your pet’s body
Losing a pet can be difficult, especially when it comes to their after-care. If you anticipate that the end is near, it’s a good idea to have a conversation about how you want to handle your pet’s remains. Cremation is a common option that allows you to keep their ashes. Another option, aquamation, is becoming more popular but may not be widely available.
#4: Rely on grief support groups to process your pet’s death
When you are grieving the loss of a pet, it can be helpful to seek support from organizations like pet loss support hotlines offered by veterinary universities or pet bereavement groups on social media. In addition to leaning on your family and friends, these resources may be able to offer unique assistance that fits your situation. Remember, there is no need to go through the grieving process alone.
If your pet’s health or happiness is declining, you can seek our team’s help to evaluate their quality of life and prepare for their eventual passing.