End-of-life decisions are difficult and can be complicated. We struggle to think of our pets’ needs and how they may be different from our needs or wants. We all want our pets to live forever, but at some point, we have to realize that they need to be freed from their illness, weakness, or sad life.
Talk to your veterinarian. They have seen many circles of life and may be able to help you be more objective about the right time for your pet. Once you have decided it’s time for your special friend, we can help you through this transition.
The first thing you may want to consider if euthanasia is an option for you is if you want to stay with your pet during the process. Some pet families want to be with them and some do not, it’s all a matter of what is most comfortable for you.
After that decision is made, think about what you want to happen with your pet’s remains. They can be taken home for your private burial or we can arrange cremation. Cremation has two options-
1. You can arrange for a cost-effective cremation called a “group option” that allows multiple pets to be cremated at one time and no ashes are returned.
2. Is called a private cremation. Private cremations are costly but you will receive your pets’ ashes in about a week in a lovely container.
Many people find it useful to pre-arrange these details and pre-pay so that on the scheduled day, they don’t have to worry about details. They can focus on their pet and their time together.
If you would like to include family members in the process, just let us know when you schedule it so that we can make sure we reserve a room large enough to accommodate them.
Dr. Zickmann and Dr. Molter are committed to making your last moments together, the best that they can be for both of you! If you find you need more support during this challenging time, please contact the Pet Loss hotline through Tufts Veterinary at 508-839-7966. They are staffed M-F from 6-9 pm and have a 24-hour voicemail if you need to reach out!
Greif Counselling
Losing a pet can be extremely upsetting, sometimes even more so than you might expect. We have such a close bond with our pets, so letting go is never easy and is often filled with pain, sadness, depression—even anger. Our team understands these feelings, as many of us have also lost pets of our own. The emotions we go through are real and nothing to be ashamed of.
Whether your loss is recent or you’ve been grieving for weeks, we are here to help you through this sad transition.