Should You Stay With Your Pet During Euthanasia?

Losing a beloved pet is one of the most difficult experiences a pet owner can go through.

It’s a heartbreaking decision to make when it comes to euthanasia, but sometimes, it may be the kindest thing for our furry friends who are suffering from terminal illnesses or severe pain.

One question that often arises during this difficult time is whether we should stay with our pets during the euthanasia process.

In this blog post, we aim to provide some insight and guidance on this topic for pet owners who may be facing this tough decision.

Understanding Euthanasia

Pet euthanasia, also known as “putting an animal to sleep” or “mercy killing,” is the practise of intentionally ending a pet’s life in a peaceful and humane way.

Typically, the pet is given the euthanasia solution, which could be in the form of a sedative or anaesthetic, to ensure complete muscle relaxation and that they are not in any pain during the process.

It is often recommended by veterinarians when pets are suffering from severe pain, chronic illness, or injuries that cannot be treated.

Euthanasia is not an easy decision to make, but it can be the best option for our furry companions who are in pain and have no hope for recovery.

Should You Stay With Your Pet?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as every pet owner and their relationship with their pet is unique.

A study on attending pet euthanasia and its relation to complicated grief and PTSD showed that 34% of the respondents chose to stay with their pets, while 50% chose not to.

This goes to show that it is a personal decision that is highly individualistic and should be made based on what feels right for you and your pet.

Some people may find it too difficult to watch their pet’s death and prefer to say goodbye beforehand. Others may feel that they owe it to their furry friend to be there until the very end.

If you are unsure about whether to stay with your pet, here are some reasons why you may consider staying with them:

Reasons To Stay With Your Pet During Euthanasia

Comfort and Support

Just like humans, pets may feel scared or anxious during the euthanasia process. By staying with them, you can provide comfort and support in your pet’s final moments. Your presence can help ease their fears and make them feel loved.

Peaceful Passing

Being with your pet during their final moments can also ensure that they have a peaceful and stress-free passing.

Sometimes, pets may become agitated or confused when separated from their owners, so being there can help them feel more at ease.

Closure and Grief

Staying with your pet during euthanasia allows you to say goodbye to your pet, which can help with the grieving process since it allows you to spend the last moments of your favourite animal’s life with them. It can help provide closure and give you a sense of peace, knowing that you were there until the end.

Avoid Regret

Not being present during your pet’s euthanasia may leave you with a sense of regret or guilt. You may wonder if your pet was scared or felt alone in their final moments, and this can be challenging to cope with. By staying with them, you can avoid these feelings of regret.

If you do decide to stay with your pet during euthanasia, it is a good idea to ask a friend or family member to accompany you to the euthanasia appointment for emotional support.

To make the euthanasia process easy for you, instead of doing it in the veterinary clinic, you may consider in-home pet euthanasia, as this allows you to say goodbye to your pet within familiar surroundings, and you don’t have to worry about driving back home.

Reasons Not To Stay With Your Pet During Euthanasia

There are also some valid reasons why you might choose not to stay with your pet during euthanasia. Here are a few reasons you should consider:

Emotional Distress

Seeing your pet in pain or watching them take their last breath can be an incredibly emotional and distressing experience. Some people may find it too difficult to watch their pet pass and prefer to say goodbye before euthanasia.

Traumatic Memories

For some individuals, staying with their pets during euthanasia may result in traumatic memories that can be hard to cope with. These memories formed in the last few moments of their pet’s life can make it challenging to move on from the loss of their pet.

Personal Preference

At the end of the day, it is crucial to remember that this decision is personal and it is something that only you can decide. Your decision on whether or not to be present for your pet’s passing should be based on what feels right for you and your pet.

If you feel that staying with your pet during euthanasia may be too difficult for you, it is entirely understandable. In such cases, you can choose to say your goodbyes beforehand and let the veterinarian handle the euthanasia process.

Things You Can Do Before, During and After Your Pet’s Euthanasia

Whether you choose to stay with your pet during euthanasia or not, here are a few things you can do to make the process more comfortable for both you and your pet:

Before Euthanasia

• Spend some quality time with your pet: Take them for a walk, play their favourite game or cuddle up with them. These moments will be precious memories for you to cherish.

• Ask the veterinarian any questions you may have about the process and what to expect.

• Decide on what you would like to do with your pet’s body: You can choose to bury them or opt for cremation services.

During Euthanasia

• Remain calm and speak softly to your pet: Your presence can help reassure them that everything will be okay. Say goodbye to your pet and tell them how much they mean to you.
• Be present in the moment: Hold your pet and let them feel your love and support.
• Play their favourite music, give them their favourite toy, or read them a poem to provide comfort.

• If you feel overwhelmed, it is okay to step out of the room for a few moments.

After Euthanasia

• Take some time to say your final goodbyes: You can stay with your pet for a few minutes to process your emotions and say goodbye.
• Take care of yourself: Losing a pet can be emotionally draining, so make sure you allow yourself time to grieve and heal.
• Seek support: It is entirely normal to feel grief and sadness after losing a pet. Reach out to friends, family, or a support group for comfort and understanding.
• Create a memorial for your pet, such as planting a tree in their memory or donating to an animal charity.

The biggest takeaway is that it is a personal decision to stay with your pet during euthanasia, and there is no right or wrong answer. It is essential to do what feels right for you and your pet and remember that your love and bond with them will never die. So whether you choose to say goodbye beforehand or stay with them until the end, know that you are giving your pet the most peaceful passing possible.

The Kindest Goodbye: How We Can Assist You

At The Kindest Goodbye, we understand that saying goodbye to your beloved pet is never easy. That’s why we offer in-home euthanasia services to help make this difficult decision a little easier for you and your pet.

Our team of compassionate veterinarians will ensure that your pet’s passing is peaceful and dignified, whether you choose to stay with them or not. We will also provide you with resources and support to help you cope with the grief of losing a pet. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Should You Stay With Your Pet During Euthanasia?

How do you stay calm during pet euthanasia?

• Take deep breaths and try to stay present in the moment.
• Talk to your pet in a soothing voice, letting them know how much they are loved.
• Seek support from a friend or family member.

Are pets scared when euthanised?

Every pet is different, but the euthanasia process is generally painless and peaceful. Your presence can help reassure your pet and make them feel loved during their final moments.

How do I cope with the loss of my pet?

• Allow yourself time to grieve and remember that it’s normal to feel sad and heartbroken.
• Seek support from friends, family, or a support group.
• Create a memorial for your pet to honour their memory.

Can I bury my pet at home?

In most places, it is legal to bury your pet in your yard. However, it’s essential to check local laws and regulations before doing so. Alternatively, you can choose cremation services for your pet’s remains.