Use the pet's name…even after death. Provide a hug, a squeeze of the hand, or touch on the shoulder-whatever you feel comfortable doing. Listen more than talk and also listen in a non-judgmental manner. Allow periods of silence.
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your (pet, dog, cat). I hope the happy memories bring you comfort as you grieve. Our sincere condolences on the loss of (pet's name). We loved (his/her) big personality and will truly miss seeing (him/her) at the office.
“I'll be praying for you. May God bless you with a speedy recovery.” “You're in my thoughts and prayers.” “I have faith that you'll be better really soon.”
“May the memories of [pet's name] bring you comfort during this time of loss.” “I know how much [pet's name] meant to you. Sending lots of love during this difficult time.” “[Pet's name] was so loved and he'll/she'll always be with you in your heart.
To avoid contributing to your dog's grief, offer love and reassurance after the loss of another household pet. “There's nothing wrong with trying to cheer up your dog,” says Dr. Bekoff. “Give him an extra treat, extra walk, a hug, or let him sleep next to you.”
Answer: Fortunately for us, dogs do not understand they are going to be put down and what happens after they are given the injection that puts them to sleep.
Even when made with the most compassionate of intentions, it's quite natural to feel a certain degree of guilt. These feelings are a testament to the degree of love and devotion we felt towards our pet. On some level, it can even be beneficial as it is a normal part of the grieving process.
Here are some examples of what not to say when a pet dies: "Don't cry." Crying is part of the grieving process for many people. "It's just a [dog/cat/etc.]." A comment like this that downplays the loss is mean and thoughtless. You don't know what the pet meant to that person.
Why Pet Loss Hurts. “One reason why losing a pet is such a deep loss is because animals' love is so unconditional and accepting,” she said. But it's also because so many aspects of people's lives are impacted. “Every single facet of life is part of the loss,” she explained.
Some people find grief following the loss of a pet comes in stages, where they experience different feelings such as denial, anger, guilt, depression, and eventually acceptance and resolution. Others find that their grief is more cyclical, coming in waves, or a series of highs and lows.
Grieving a pet can be similar to mourning the loss of a family member. Some owners experience feelings of deep loneliness and isolation. Please don't worry or feel ashamed - these emotions are perfectly normal.
“Thinking of you and your family as you celebrate the life of your beloved.” “May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time.” “I am sharing in your sadness as you remember your loved one.” “Praying for you during this difficult time.
Express sympathy for their loss
“I'm sorry for your loss.” “My deepest sympathies to you and your family.” “Words can't describe how sorry I am for your loss.” “Thinking of you at this difficult time.”
“A companion is gone … but the memory lives on.” “The most difficult thing about having a dog is the goodbye.” “Grief is not a sign of weakness, but the price of love.” “If the kindest souls were rewarded with the longest lives, dogs would outlive us all.”
Give them all the things they enjoy most – their favourite toys, their favourite food. You know what will make your pet feel most at ease in the time that remains. If you become tearful, ask a family member, friend or other trusted person to take care of your pet so you can leave the room and have a cry.
It's perfectly normal and acceptable to cry. This can be an incredibly sad experience, and even though the veterinary staff might have to go through this all too often, there really is no getting used to euthanizing someone's beloved companion.
The heart and lungs will stop functioning within minutes after injecting the euthanasia solution, so dogs generally won't feel pain because they are unconscious. They may react to the procedure by having muscle spasms or crying out due to underlying sickness, yet the whole process is quick, simple, and painless.
It may take a minute or two for the heart to stop. The doctor will listen carefully to your pet's heart to ensure it has stopped before pronouncing him or her gone. After that, there is no danger of your pet waking up. This is a very common fear for pet owners.
Behavior Changes
Some dogs will become restless, wandering the house and seeming unable to settle or get comfortable. Others will be abnormally still and may even be unresponsive. Your dog's sleeping patterns may change. He may become cranky and difficult to handle, either due to pain or disorientation.