For most of us who have had the pleasure of having a beloved pet in our life, we have also unfortunately had to say goodbye to them as well. Losing a pet can be every bit as traumatic as losing a human loved one.
For many pet owners the only downside to sharing their lives with a cat, dog, bunny or other animal family member is that pets live relatively short lives. Some pets can die from health complications due to their age. Others become ill or injured and die before their time. In some cases you will face the decision of whether or not to euthanize your pet — perhaps the most difficult and confusing situation for any pet owner.
Knowing when it’s time. When deciding if it’s time to euthanize, talk to your veterinarian. They will be in the best position to help guide you.
Some signs that it may be time include if your pet is in pain that cannot be managed with medication. Other signs: Your pet has frequent vomiting and/or diarrhea that cause dehydration and dramatic weight loss; your pet has stopped eating and will eat only if you force feed; your pet is incontinent, has labored breathing, chronic coughing or is unable to stand or walk on its own. If your pet has lost all interest in favorite activities, such as going for walks, playing with toys, enjoying treats and enjoying attention, these all may be signs to watch for.
Saying goodbye. When you and your vet have made this most difficult decision to end your pet’s suffering, you can expect to have mixed feelings and emotions yourself. Here are some tips from the American Veterinary Association:
– Make sure that all family members are given the opportunity to say goodbye.
– If you have young children or grandchildren, explain the decision and prepare them for the loss in advance. For many children, losing a pet is their first experience with death. Supporting them through their grieving process can help make the loss less traumatic. Books that deal with the death of pets and that can help them understand the loss include “The Tenth Good Thing About Barney” by Judith Viorst, “When a Pet Dies” by Fred Rogers, and “Remembering My Pet” by Machama Liss-Levinson and Molly Phinney Baskette.
– Decide if you and/or your family members want to be present. For some, emotions might be too intense. Others want to be a loving presence for their pet as the pet transitions from this life.
– If you are single, make sure you have a loved one with you for support. Make sure the person you choose understands how deeply you love your pet.
What’s next. After experiencing the loss of a pet, some animal lovers quickly welcome a new pet into the family; some are so heartbroken they swear they will never again own a pet. And some will get a new pet after a period of time. Your process is your own and you will all need some time to grieve. Only you know what’s right for you.
Please stop by and visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society shelter. We have many beautiful animals just waiting for that special family. The shelter is located at 26 Cross St., Presque Isle. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closing for lunch 12-12:30.
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is the secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
