Vets and veterinary nurses working in our clinics are often involved in the long-term support of chronically ill pets and their owners. When the question of euthanasia comes up, we always try and make sure that owners feel they are part of the decision-making process. Vets will explain their diagnosis and what it means for the pet, which can include the impact of their condition on their quality of life, estimates of how long an animal's illness can be managed and providing palliative care for them in old age. We want owners to feel that when the time comes that euthanasia was the right decision.
Pets involved in road traffic accidents, sudden illnesses or long-term conditions which have suddenly deteriorated may require euthanasia decisions to be made very quickly.
Some owners may go through anticipatory grief knowing that pet loss is looming. It's worthwhile remembering that many complaints in veterinary practice are associated with breaking the news about a pet's terminal illness, death or euthanasia. Making sure all the team are aware of where to find information and practice protocols, and that information is recorded correctly is essential. At the Blue Cross we have learned to treat everyone individually depending on their situation, their reaction and what they need from us.
On the frontline
When a euthanasia decision has been made (or is likely) the reception team encourage the owner to bring their pet in during our least busy times so that they can be seen quickly and with few people around. We have a quiet room which is more homely than the standard clinics, with a sofa — this setting can help reduce anxiety and tension.
Home euthanasia can also be a really good option for some clients, although not a service that Blue Cross is able to provide on a routine basis.
Leaflets can include details about the grief process, contact numbers for advice and support, euthanasia, burial options, cremation options, and information about online memorials. There are also many books to help both adults and children through the loss of a pet, which you could recommend. Some owners can benefit from having access to leaflets and information before their pet dies in order to prepare themselves.
While many conversations we have with owners initially seem to be about practicalities, they do often turn into a more heart-felt chat. It is most often the reception or nursing team that clients turn to — either face to face or over the phone — for a general talk about their pet, as people often feel that friends or family don't understand how it feels to lose a beloved animal companion.
Afterwards
As well as helping owners understand the medical issues involved in making a euthanasia decision and supporting them through the process, the team at Victoria Blue Cross hospital continue to be there to offer support to owners after the death of a pet. Many owners will have questions and concerns that occur to them after their pet has been euthanised and we are always there, either in person or on the end of the phone, to answer them. We send out bereavement cards for owners to arrive 2 or 3 days after they have lost their pets, which gives them something to keep in memory of their pet and reminds them that we are available should they wish to talk to anyone.
Some clients would like to have ashes as something to help them through their grief, if they are unable to afford this we can offer other suggestions including a fur swatch or a paw print using an ink pad on card instead. We like to let our clients know that grieving for their pets is normal and understandable and as animal lovers ourselves, we can empathise with them.
Pet bereavement support
The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) (http://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-bereavement-support) is a completely confidential phone or email service run by trained volunteers, all of whom have experienced the loss of a pet themselves. They talk to thousands of owners every year who are struggling to cope with the loss of a pet and provide a sympathetic ear for people who feel like friends or family don't understand.