Losing a pet is one of the hardest things we go through as pet parents. They are our companions and family, and saying goodbye is an unimaginable pain. If you’ve recently received a diagnosis that means you won’t have much time left with your pet, or if you simply want to be prepared, this guide will help you make the most of your remaining time together, navigate the euthanasia process, and find ways to honor their memory afterward.
Before: Making the most of your time together
If you know that your pet’s time is limited, it can feel overwhelming. But this time can also be a gift—a chance to create special moments and say goodbye in a meaningful way.
1. Create a pet bucket list
Think about all the things your pet loves most and plan some special days around them. This could include:
- A trip to their favorite park or beach
- A special meal of their favorite treats (vet-approved, if needed)
- Extra-long cuddle sessions on the couch
- A backyard picnic with all their favorite snacks
- Letting them sleep in bed with you if they usually don’t
- A professional photoshoot or simply capturing more candid photos and videos
- A visit from their favorite human or pet friend
Even if you don’t do anything special, try to become more present around your pet as they age. Put down your phone sometimes and lean into the regular moments with them! Soak them in.
2. Get to know your memorial options
While it may feel too soon to think about, knowing about what kind of memorials exist ahead of time can help you feel more in control when the moment comes. Some options to consider:
- Paw prints, nose prints, or a lock of fur
- A special collar tag to keep or wear as a necklace
- A piece of art or tattoo in their honor
- A memorial stone or engraved plaque for your garden
- A keepsake with their name or a piece of their favorite blanket
3. Let them lead the way
As your pet’s health declines, pay close attention to what they need. Some pets may want more comfort and affection, while others might prefer quiet rest. Try to make them as comfortable as possible, keeping their favorite bed, toys, or blankets close.
During: Navigating euthanasia with love
Making the decision to say goodbye is heartbreaking, even when we know it’s the kindest thing for our four-legged family. Here are some ways to make the process as peaceful as possible.
1. Take your time
You don’t have to rush. Whether you’re at the vet’s office or at home, take a few deep breaths, pet your companion, and soak in the moment. Say what you want to say. They know they are loved.
2. Speak to them gently
Your pet can still hear you in their final moments, so try to use a calm, reassuring voice. Even if you’re breaking inside, letting them hear love instead of distress can bring them comfort. If you cry, that’s okay—but if you can, save the deepest grief for afterward. You are their safe place.
3. Ask about memorial options beforehand
Many veterinary offices offer memorial services like paw prints, fur clippings, or ashes. If you’re unsure whether you’ll want these keepsakes, it’s better to get them. You can always decide later whether to keep them, but you won’t be able to go back and collect them.
4. Know that you are making the right decision
Choosing euthanasia is an act of love. It prevents unnecessary suffering and allows your pet to pass peacefully, surrounded by love. If you’re struggling with guilt, remind yourself that this decision comes from a place of kindness and deep care.
If you need help figuring out when the right time is to choose euthanasia, this quality of life scale for pets online calculator is a big help.
After: Healing at your own pace
The days, weeks, and months after losing a pet can be incredibly painful. Everyone grieves differently, and there is no "right" way to move forward. Here are some ways to navigate this time.
1. Don’t rush to remove your pet’s things
You don’t have to clear away their belongings right away. Their bed, bowls, or favorite toys may bring you comfort in the early days. When you’re ready, you can donate items to a shelter or repurpose them into a memory project.
2. Take your time announcing their passing
There’s no pressure to post on social media or tell everyone immediately. Share the news when you feel ready, in whatever way feels right.
3. Find a special way to honor them
Memorializing your pet can be a beautiful part of the healing process. Here are some ideas:
- Light a candle for them on special days
- Create an altar with their collar, favorite toy, or other special things that remind you of them
- Donate to a rescue or animal welfare organization in their name
- Volunteer or foster with a rescue in honor of them
- Plant a tree or flowers in their memory
- Keep a journal of your favorite memories
- Have a piece of jewelry made with their name or a small engraving
- Plan a memorial service for them
- Create a photo album of your favorite photos of them
- Share pictures and memories with friends and family to keep their memory alive
- Join a pet loss bereavement group, or seek help from a mental health professional if your grief feels extreme
4. Be gentle with yourself
Grief doesn’t follow a timeline. Some days will be harder than others. Allow yourself to feel everything—sadness, anger, guilt, even laughter when you remember the funny things they did. There is no "moving on" from a pet you loved; there is only learning how to carry them with you in a new way.
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