The Loss of a Pet

The family pet has long been a source of happiness and friendship for animal lovers
around the world. Pets can fulfill a variety of roles in an owners’ life such as companion, playmate, defender, or friend. Nevertheless, the time inevitably arrives when pet owners must face their pets’ mortality. When a pet can no longer respond to an owner in a usual manner, ceases to eat or drink, or is experiencing pain or serious injury, euthanasia may be a valid option to consider. A veterinarian performs euthanasia by administering an overdose of anesthesia that suppresses brain activity and stops the heart so that the pet does not feel any pain. Many pet owners experience the emotional issue of euthanizing a terminally ill or severely injured pet. Choosing to euthanize a beloved pet and cherished companion is a difficult decision that can bring deep pain resulting in feelings of anger, guilt, and grief.

The following are some suggestions for helping pet owners cope with the euthanasia of a pet:

• Be informed and prepared. Talk to your veterinarian about euthanasia and find out the options available for your pet.
• Know when its time to let go. The decision to euthanize a pet can be very difficult, but the decision can become necessary for the quality of life for your pet and your family.
• Prepare children for pet’s euthanasia. The loss of a pet can be very traumatic to a
child and parents should encourage children to express and share their feelings.
• Plan a procedure for your pet’s remains. Many pet owners choose to have their pets cremated and can have the ashes returned to them. Others prefer to bury their pets.

Having a plan beforehand can make the euthanasia experience less stressful.

• Don’t attempt to replace your pet with a new one right away. Getting a new pet too soon can be hard on pet owners or members of the family who have not dealt with their grief and are not ready to begin loving a new pet.

Because of the special relationship between pets and their owners, many individuals experience a very strong sense of pain and grief after the passing of their special pet.

Accepting the loss of a pet can be difficult, and pet owners may find comfort in pet loss support groups or from professional counselors.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 2003