Tips for Saying Goodbye

I refer to the above quote often during my work days. I usually tell owners that while saying goodbye to our beloved pets is a hard decision for us, it’s a compassionate and peaceful ending for them. For each euthanasia, my goal is to make it as peaceful as possible, but that doesn’t mean the decision is an easy one

 

When it comes to determining 'when it's time,' eating is often considered the primary indicator for many. However, I've witnessed numerous instances with my own pets and patients where they continue to eat despite other significant, underlying issues. While you may hear advice like 'you'll know when their quality of life declines,' grasping this concept can be challenging, especially when it concerns your own beloved pet.

 

I usually guide owners, and myself, with a simple idea. Think back to when your pet was its healthiest and happiest. Pick a few things that they used love doing, or that were characteristic for them. It could be begging for food, barking at the mailman, greeting you at the door, playing with a favorite toy, bird watching, etc. When they reach a stage where they're no longer capable of doing those things, or are visibly struggling to do them, it becomes a more objective way to recognize that their quality of life has diminished from what it once was.

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For some pets with chronic diseases this can be a little trickier. They may have good days where they do those things but also bad days where they don’t. In those cases, I recommend having owners keep track with a calendar. When the number of bad days outweigh the number of good days, or when the severity of the bad days outweigh the good days, it’s another way to tell their quality of life has declined. I’ll be discussing this a bit more in a future blog post about my first cat, Potato.

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I hope this provides some guidance during such a sensitive and challenging decision-making process. Remember, your veterinarian is here to support you and answer any questions you may have. Never hesitate to discuss euthanasia—it's a topic we're here to assist you with, without judgment. Please feel free to reach out with any concerns; we're here to walk alongside you and provide support as you navigate this difficult decision.