18/08/2024
Preparation can make all the difference between a beautiful goodbye and a last minute emergency dash to the clinic. There isn’t always the luxury of time to prepare but if there is, find out your options.
1. Find The Best Spot 💛
The first thing you need to choose is a comfortable spot for a euthanasia visit. This spot should be familiar to your pet as this will help create a calm and safe environment. This could be your pet's favourite sunny spot on the deck, a peaceful place in the garden, the warm comfy couch or a spot on the floor where your pet likes to lie. Depending on your pet's personality, it can be best to keep everything as normal so as not to worry them and let them choose the spot that they wish to be in.
Once you have chosen the best option for your pet, if appropriate you can make a bed with your pet's favourite bedding or blankets. Preparing special toys, objects or treats in the area will create familiar smells which may help your pet feel comfortable.
Some people like to play music or burn candles during the euthanasia. You know you pet better than anyone. Create a calm, comforting and familiar environment for your pet - whatever that may look like.
2. Who Should Be Present? 💚
Decide who you would like to be present at the euthanasia visit - family, friends, children or neighbours. Be mindful of the space and how many people or other pets will be around. If you have any other pets we would recommend giving them the option to be present if they wish. However, if they will disturb your pet or distract you from concentrating on your pet, it can be good to have them in a separate space during the euthanasia and then give them the option to see their friend after they have passed away.
3. Settle Final Arrangements Before Appointment 💙
Organising your cremation, burial and aftercare requests before the euthanasia appointment can be really helpful. After the euthanasia you may have heightened emotions which can make it difficult to deal with logistical matters.
There are many different aftercare options available; don't hesitate to ask if you'd like us to help you find options that best honour your pet - paw prints, nose prints, a Reterniti stone, jewellery, fur clippings, photography or a memorial service. Planning ahead of time will prevent aftercare options from getting missed or forgotten.
4. Understand What To Expect 💜
Uncertainty can often cause anxiety in people. If you’re unfamiliar with euthanasia, it’s best to understand the process before the appointment. Knowledge can ease your mind about what to expect. The Team at Our Pet's Goodbye welcomes any questions or concerns you may have about the process and we want to help you prepare in any way we can.
5. Support ❤
Making the decision to euthanise a pet is not easy - you may have overwhelming feelings of grief and guilt, even if euthanasia is the right thing to do.
Try to replace your guilt with grace, and know that you gave your pet the most comfortable and peaceful ending possible.
The grieving process can last for days or years, and there’s no need to rush it. How people respond to grief varies. Some people like to surround themselves with company while others may prefer to be alone. If you are struggling to deal with grief, you could contact a grief counsellor or reach out to family or friends for support if these are options available to you. Keep remembering happy and loving moments with your pet.
6. Celebrate Your Pet's Life 🤍
There is no right or wrong way to celebrate your beloved pet. Many people have a celebration the day before the euthansia, while others may choose to celebrate after the euthansia. This can give people an option to say goodbye and share their stories about your pet in a supportive and understanding environment. Depending on the health of your pet, spoil them with treats, toys and fun activities. Tell them what they mean to you, sing to them, laugh or cry with them - do what feels right to you to celebrate the life of your precious pet and remember the love, support and wonderful memories you have shared with them.
