More on big changes
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
Allow surviving pets to see and smell the deceased companion's body before burial or cremation to provide closure and prevent perpetual waiting.
Animals understand death and seeing the body helps them mourn rather than feeling abandoned; however, some pets may become distressed or freaked out by the sight.
- Some pets may become distressed or freaked out by seeing the dead body.
8 people, independently
Hold your pet physically, such as holding their paw or keeping them in your arms, during the procedure.
It provides reassurance and you will want to hold them afterward.
3 people, independently
Offer your pet their favorite treats or foods during their final days.
- Some rich foods like ice cream and burgers may cause digestive upset.
4 people, independently
Bring familiar items like blankets, toys, or a shirt worn by a loved one to the vet or home setting so the pet can smell them.
5 people, independently
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Leave a pen in your mailbox to write 'return to sender' or 'no longer at this address' on misdelivered mail immediately.
Writing on misaddressed mail helps get rid of it quickly, preventing it from piling up inside your home.
3 people, independently
If home euthanasia is not an option, arrange for the procedure to take place in a location where the pet feels safe, such as a car, a favorite tree, or outside on the grass.
3 people, independently
- If home visits are unavailable, request that euthanasia occur outdoors or in a non-clinical space, like on sunny grass.3
Place the pet on a blanket or their favorite pillow during the procedure.
3 people, independently