Is It Time?
The single most difficult decision a pet owner has to make is whether or not it is time to euthanize a pet. It is so hard to think about, but sometimes the only compassionate decision is to ease suffering through euthanasia.
You may want to consider the following questions:
- Is your pet in constant pain?
- Can your pet control his/her urine or stool output?
- Can your pet move when he/she chooses to do so?
- Is your pet eating & drinking on his/her own?
- Is your pet still enjoying daily activities?
- Does your pet still recognize you?
- Do the bad days outnumber the good days?
Who Decides?
You. The decision to euthanize is always yours to make. If you are unsure whether it is right for your pet, you may want to discuss your feelings with your veterinarian. They will talk to you about the progression of your pet’s disease or condition and offer you important information about your pet’s quality of life.
It is never easy for any of us to accept death, but euthanasia can end up being the most unselfish act of love we can offer a pet. Your veterinary heath care team will do whatever we can to help you at this very difficult time.
If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain does keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done
For this – the last battle – can’t be won.
You will be sad I understand
But don’t let grief then stay you hand.
For on this day, more than the rest
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn’t want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please let me go.
Take me to where my needs they’ll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end.
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don’t grieve that it must now be you
Who has to decide this thing to do.
We’ve been so close – we two – these years,
Don’t let your heart hold any tears.
Preparations
The compassionate and professional team at PAH will be here for you when you want to discuss your choices. The PAH team will explain the process of a euthanasia. We understand that each family has their own unique set of wishes when it comes to saying goodbye and memorializing their pet. We will respect your wishes and will try to make the process a memory that you will cherish.
We can assure you and your family that your beloved pet will receive the respect and quality of care that he/she deserves. We believe that families, in time of sorrow, desire personal attention, comfort and absolute assurance that every detail will be carried out perfectly and gracefully.
A Gentle Process
Our staff will guide you through the whole process of euthanasia. You will be escorted to the comfort room to discuss your wishes.Your pet will be prepped with an IV, which allows you to hold and cuddle your pet through the entire procedure.
This is a very private setting; only your family and doctor are in the room. Your doctor will walk you through the steps of the euthanasia so that there are no surprises.You can spend as much time as you need in the comfort room, both before and after the procedure.
Memorializing Your Pet
We have dedicated our Pathway of Life to the memories of lost pets. It is a special and tranquil place where you can hold a goodbye service for your pet. There are several ways to memorialize your pet, and the choice is completely up to you.
Some owners choose to have pet's ashes scattered at Lakeview Pet Cemetery in Brockville, Ontario, while others choose to take their ashes home with them in a special urn.
Grieving
The truth is there’s not much we can say to make you feel better after losing a pet. But we will always be here to listen to your feelings and to offer you our support. We provide grief counseling to help you heal.
Grief is our natural way of coping with loss. But it can leave us feeling sad, angry, guilty and alone. And while we believe it’s important to fully grieve the loss of your wonderful companion, please know that giving your pet a full, happy life by your side was truly the best and most special gift they could ever get.
Pet Loss Support | Sharon Carson