Saying goodbye to your pet

How do I know when it is time to euthanise my pet?

This is the question we are asked most, and there is rarely one perfect moment. Many families tell us they will "just know", but it isn't always that clear, especially when a pet has a slowly progressing illness or has good days and bad days.

Some questions that can help you think about your pet's quality of life are:

• Are they still eating and drinking?
• Can they get up, move around and go to the toilet without too much difficulty?
• Is their pain well controlled?
• Are they still interested in the things they love, such as their walks, their favourite toy, or greeting you at the door?
• Are the bad days starting to outnumber the good days?

Some families find it helpful to keep a simple calendar, marking each day as a good day or a bad day. Our vets are always happy to see your pet for a quality of life consultation, to talk honestly about how they are going and what options are available. You don't have to make this decision alone.

What happens during pet euthanasia?

We will always explain everything to you before we start, and you can ask as many questions as you need to. We book a longer appointment at a quieter time of day, and we will take you straight into a quiet room so you don't need to wait in reception.

In most cases, our vet will first give your pet a sedation injection, so they become very relaxed and sleepy. Once they are calm, the vet gives an overdose of an anaesthetic medication, usually into a vein. Your pet will drift off to sleep within a minute or two, and their heart will stop peacefully. They don't feel any pain other than the small needle, and they don't know what is happening.

It is helpful to know that after your pet has passed, their eyes may stay open, and sometimes there can be some muscle twitches or a final breath. These are normal reflexes, and they do not mean your pet is aware or in pain.

Can I stay with my pet during euthanasia?

Yes, and many families choose to. You are welcome to stay with your pet, stroke them and talk to them the whole time. Some people prefer to say goodbye beforehand and not be in the room, and that is completely OK too. There is no right or wrong choice, only what feels right for you. Children may also like to be involved, and we are happy to talk with you about how to include them.

What are my options for my pet's body afterwards?

You can take your time to decide, and our team will talk you through the options, which include:

• Individual cremation: your pet is cremated individually and their ashes are returned to you, usually in a timber box or urn of your choice.
• Communal cremation: your pet is cremated with other pets and the ashes are not returned.
• Home burial: some families choose to bury their pet at home. Please check your council's rules before doing this, and bury your pet deeply, as the medication used can be harmful to other animals.

We can also arrange keepsakes such as a paw print or a clipping of fur. Once you have said goodbye you will be contacted by the crematorium after you have had time to decide on the cremation option.

Coping with the loss of your pet

Grief after losing a pet is real, and it can be just as painful as losing any other member of the family. It is normal to feel sad, lost, guilty or even relieved, especially if your pet was unwell for a long time. Please be kind to yourself, and talk to the people around you. If you are finding it hard to cope, speaking with your GP or a counsellor can help. Our team is always here if you would like to talk.