For many of us, the connection we share with companion
animals extends beyond just friendly company; our pets are considered a part of
the family. The truly unique love between an owner and their pet is something
one has to experience to understand. Although a pet may be a very loved and
important family member, it is important to be sensitive and aware of your
pet’s needs as they age.
Sometimes owners are faced with difficult decisions when
their pet reaches an age or health condition that no longer allows them to
enjoy daily activities. Dr. Sarah Griffin, lecturer at the Texas A&M
College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (CVM), explains that
euthanization is never an easy choice, but in some cases, it may be the best
option for your pet.
“One of my professors in veterinary school told us that she
tells clients to pick the pet’s three favorite things,” Griffin said. “When two
out of three of those things are gone, it’s time to let them go. Many pets will
continue to eat and drink even when they are in pain. Keeping a daily record of
good vs. bad days sometimes helps you see the quality of life they are living.”
Some of the emotional struggles owners face when dealing
with their pet’s death may be guilt and loneliness. An owner may have made the
mistake of letting their pet outdoors to play with other animals, resulting in
a fight or attack. Getting hit by a car is another danger owners face when
letting their pets play outside. Some owners may even feel guilt for their
pet’s death because they did not take them to the veterinarian after
discovering symptoms of a potential disease or sickness. Whatever the case may
be, many owners also suffer from loneliness after the loss of their pet.
“Pets are a part of our families. Recognizing the way you
handle grief is important,” Griffin explained. “The first step in working
through a pet’s death is acknowledging the way you feel. Share your feelings
with close friends and family so they can support and encourage you.”
Griffin reminds pet owners who are suffering from a loss to
remember their pet in a positive light. Keeping pictures on the shelves and
other memorabilia of the pet can also help owners manage their emotions.
Dr. Stacy Eckman, clinical assistant professor at the CVM,
reveals other ways that people cope with the loss of a pet. “Many people will
rush to fill the void with another pet, while some people need more time to
open their heart to another pet,” she said. “Volunteering at shelters or animal
organizations can help people cope as well.”
Children can be especially affected by the loss of a pet.
Sometimes parents struggle with giving their children an explanation of why
Fido is no longer around to play. After recently experiencing the loss of
Scooter, the family dachshund, Griffin recommends being patient with young
children and encouraging them to express their feelings.
“We had a memorial service, shared memories about Scooter,
and placed flowers over his grave,” she said. “We bought a book called “I’ll
Always Love You” by Hans Wilhelm to help our daughter cope with the loss of
Scooter.”
Eckman adds that communication is very important in helping
children understand the loss of a pet.
“Be honest with your children—they may understand more than
you think,” she said. “Explain in very broad terms, ‘Fido was very sick and
could not do the things he really loved with you any longer.’ Give them space
to grieve and an ear/shoulder to grieve on.”
Companion animals have a special talent for capturing our
hearts and allowing us to experience a truly unique and unconditional love. No
matter the circumstances, losing a pet is never easy. As an owner it is
important to keep the health and well-being of your pet in mind when making
decisions for the future.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine
& Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University.
Comments