Practice News
 Saying Goodbye -the difficult part of having pets.Wednesday 28th October, 2009
All pet owners dread the day when they may have to make the decision to have their beloved friend put to sleep. This may be sudden and unexpected or after a long illness but it is never an easy decision to make. Although it can be devastating at the time, coming to terms with the loss of a much loved pet is a reflection of the pleasure they gave us during their lifetime.
Sometimes children can be very upset by the sudden death of a pet, it may provoke feelings of abandonment or they may be concerned that their parents may die also.
If you get the opportunity to say goodbye, this can be very reassuring. Many people find that the sight of their pet, even though it may be unpleasant, helps them come to terms with the loss and start the grieving process. Veterinary practices are usually very sensitive to owners needs in these circumstances.
Euthanasia comes from the Greek for "a gentle death." It is a great gift to be able to avoid pain and suffering and to allow an animal to die quickly and painlessly. When you decide to have a pet put to sleep a vet will explain the process and tell you what to expect. Some people can be too upset at the time to discuss it so don't be afraid to ask before you decide or afterwards if you have any questions. You may want to arrange the appointment at a time when the practice is quiet.
You will be asked to sign a consent form giving the vet permission to carry out euthanasia and owners are often asked if they want to stay with their pet. There are no hard and fast rules about whether it is better to stay with your pet while it has the injection. Some people find it comforting others find it distressing. You have to decide what you are most comfortable with. Your pet will be given an injection and this is usually given into a vein in the front leg, although some types of injection are given into a muscle. A nurse often helps the vet with this. The injections are similar to an anaesthetic and the animal will usually fall asleep within seconds if it is given into the vein. Once your pet loses consciousness, it will then stop breathing and the heart will then stop. You will now be given a few moments with you pet if you want time to say goodbye.
It's worth discussing your wishes as regards your pets body before the procedure -most people leave their pet at the surgery where either communal or individual cremation can be arranged. Alternatively you may prefer to take your pet home to bury.
The grief process consists of a number of stages: disbelief, pain, anger, guilt and acceptance. The first stage is disbelief and shock. It may be hard to accept the animal is no longer with us and the house may feel very empty. The next stage is pain, anger and depression. This is the time you need the support of family and friends and a listening ear. Many people will experience feelings of guilt; "Did I do the right thing?" "What could I have done to prevent it?" This is normal and will subside in time. The last stage of the process is acceptance. You have accepted the reality of the loss of your pet and can now look back with happiness on the many pleasant memories of your time together.
The death of a pet is very upsetting and it is important to allow yourself time to grieve. Don't feel embarrassed about crying as it helps when you release these intense emotions. Everyone reacts differently to grief but rest assured with time these sad feelings will ease.
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