Preparing for Loss
Tammy Durham

Having an ill or aging pet is a difficult thing to face. You have many decisions to consider. Are there treatments that might help your pet? If there are, can you afford them? Are they the best thing for your pet? Is it time to consider euthanasia for your pet?

Answering all of these questions to answer can be an overwhelming task. It helps to know that it is OK to be confused and emotional during this time. The decision-making process can be easier if you allow yourself to feel the emotions and go through the process.

Consider really working through these questions to help you know that the decision you make is the right one for you and for your pet. Each situation is different, and another person’s decision may not be the same as your decision.

1. Do you have all of the medical information you need to make a decision? Do you have more questions for your veterinarian?
   
   
2. If there is a treatment available, do you know what that entails? Is a surgery necessary and what is involved if there is? Is it medication? And knowing how the veterinarian intends for the treatment outcomes is very important. Be sure you’re on the same page by asking a lot of questions!
   
   
3. What do you think your pet wants? Is he or she in great pain or discomfort?
   
   
4. Can your pet still enjoy daily routines, treats, activities, or is that enjoyment gone?
   
   
5. Do you have children to consider when making decisions for your pet? Knowing how to help children with pet loss can make a difficult decision even harder. Become informed about helping children to make things easier for yourself.
   
   
6. Consider your finances. It is hard to think about money and the treatment of your pet, but it is a reality that you need to keep in mind. Be sure you’re aware of what the treatment will possibly cost, and whether that is a feasible option for you and your family.
   
   
7. Do you know what you need to know about the euthanasia process as you consider that for your pet? Do you need to ask your veterinarian to explain it in detail for you so there are no misconceptions?
   
   
8. Is there anything you need to do before your pet dies? Making a memorial like a ClayPaws® print, or seeking out resources to help you feel more prepared emotionally for a loss can help you through the death of a pet.

Allowing yourself to think through all of the scenarios and questions may help to take the pressure off just a little bit. Making decisions for your pet is a huge part of being a pet parent and it can also be stressful. Knowing that you can ask questions and be fully informed can help take that stress down a notch.

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Planning Ahead for the Loss of
a Beloved Pet

Making the Decision to
Euthanize Your Pet