Pet loss/bereavement advice
Abstract
With hundreds of pets and owners coming through the doors of our busy Blue Cross animal hospital in London Victoria every week, death and euthanasia are something we deal with every week. Euthanasia is the most important and difficult decision people have to make for their pets, so we work together as a team to make sure they feel informed and supported throughout the whole process.
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.
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