How to Prepare for the Death of Your Pet
Although the loss of a pet is never simple, being prepared for it can help alleviate your mental and emotional distress. Here are four methods to prepare for and cope with your pet’s eventual death.
#1: Evaluate the quality of life of your companion
Your companion cannot communicate with you when they are ill, but they may exhibit signs of poor mental and physical health. Using a quality of life scale, you can evaluate the health and contentment of your pet as they age or deteriorate from a chronic medical condition. The quality of life scale enables you to evaluate your companion objectively and can help you determine if they are suffering.
#2: Determine the timing of your pet’s euthanasia
While a pet’s untimely demise relieves you of the responsibility of determining when and if euthanasia is the best option, you may wonder if you missed your pet’s illness. On the other hand, it is always difficult to determine when your companion is ready to die and when to schedule euthanasia. However, keep in mind that few pets die peacefully in their sleep, so euthanasia can be your final act of compassion for a suffering companion.
#3: Discuss proper body maintenance for your pet
You may not be prepared for your pet’s aftercare if it passes away. Discussing how you would like to care for your pet’s body can alleviate tension if you know the end is near. Cremation is a popular option, and you can choose to receive the ashes of your companion. As a form of aftercare, aquamation is gaining popularity but is not yet broadly accessible.
#4: Rely on grief support groups to cope with the loss of your companion
In addition to family and friends, seek out to support groups during your time of grief. Numerous veterinary universities offer pet loss support hotlines, and a plethora of pet bereavement support groups on social media may be a good match for your specific situation. You are never required to travel through grief alone.
If your pet’s health or contentment is deteriorating, ask our team for assistance evaluating their quality of life and planning for their eventual passing.