07/12/2022
Euthanasia.
The single worst decision, day, and moment in a pet parents’ life. The kind of decision that makes you question ever owning another pet, because it’s too damn hard. This inevitable moment is too painful.
“This must be the absolute worst part of your job.” I hear that almost every time.
Yes. It freaking sucks. But you know what I say to that each time?
Euthanasia is a gift. A way to allow our furry angels to pass with peace, without stress, and with dignity. We wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe there was another option. And just because it’s the right decision doesn’t make it an easy one.
Remembering those words allows me the peace and calm to help you through one of the worst days of your life. That doesn’t mean I won’t cry too, or my hand won’t shake when I’m giving those final medications. But it means I can go home knowing your baby isn’t suffering anymore.
That also doesn’t mean it won’t take its toll. We are veterinarians, technicians, nurses because we love our patients like their our own. A small or sometimes very large piece of our soul breaks every single time. At certain times it seems like we can’t catch a break, that the losses are coming too quickly for us to even take a breath between. “Dr. Death walking” we’ll sometimes say.
The holidays tend to be the worst part of the year for this ugly trend. Making Christmas cheer, or Thanksgiving gratitude a little stale most years. So over the next few months, please remember to be kind to all, to extend grace and patience even when you might not feel like it, and know above all that if your heart is breaking so is ours.
With love,
Your Veterinarian
