What Happens When Your Pet is Put to Sleep?

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest experiences a pet owner can face. The process of euthanasia, while deeply emotional, is intended to provide a peaceful and compassionate end for our pets. It’s designed to end unnecessary suffering with minimal pain and distress. Deciding if or when to put your pet to sleep is always hard, but the right preparation and emotional support help you cope. Instead of searching for “comfort for loss of pet” at the worst possible time, take the time to be prepared, both for your sake and your pet’s.

The Process

Knowing what to expect helps to soothe fears and anxiety for both people and pets. At A Peaceful Return To Eden, we offer in-home pet euthanasia, aftercare, and memorials to remember your beloved animal. Euthanasia is a difficult, emotional process, and it’s essential to find a compassionate and experienced veterinarian who understands the delicate nature of this procedure. The procedure typically involves consultation, preparation, euthanasia, and aftercare.

Consultation: Before calling us, your veterinarian will see your pet, discuss your options with you, and answer any questions you have. Once you and your vet have chosen euthanasia for your pet, one of our compassionate team members with help schedule a date and time that works for you. This helps you make an informed decision with your pet's best interests in mind and gives you time to prepare yourself and your pet.

Preparation: Once you've made the decision, you can begin preparing for the procedure. Spend time with your pet doing some of their favorite things. Talk to all of your human family members who may want to be there. Don’t try to change your pet’s schedule too much. They take comfort in it. On the day of, you may want to set up an area in your home for the pet euthanasia process.

Euthanasia: The process of euthanasia involves the administration of an anesthetic overdose or a combination of medications that gently and painlessly allows your pet to pass away. The process is quick and ensures your pet's transition is as peaceful as possible. We encourage you to stay with your pet throughout the process, but you should know what to expect. Typical, normal symptoms include:

  • Twitching
  • Deep breathing
  • Tounge lolling
  • Their eyes may remain open
  • Voiding bowels/bladder 

Aftercare: Following euthanasia, you will have options for the aftercare of your pet's remains. We also offer the option to select a memorial memento and can offer advice between cremation or burial.

Working Through Grief

Losing a beloved pet can be an incredibly challenging and emotional experience. The last thing you want to be doing is searching for “comfort for loss of pet” after actually losing your pet. The most important thing to remember is that grieving your pet is important, and everyone will go through the process in their own way.

First and foremost, allow yourself to feel the pain and sadness that accompanies losing a pet, and reach out to friends and family for support. You can also create a memorial or tribute to honor your pet's memory.

Make sure you spend time taking care of yourself. Whether it's spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy, self-care can help soothe your heart during this difficult time.

Remember, the grieving process is unique to each individual. There is no right or wrong way to mourn or to seek comfort. Allow yourself the time and space to heal at your own pace.

Saying Goodbye

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but choosing euthanasia ensures a compassionate and peaceful end to their suffering. By understanding the typical pet euthanasia process and permitting yourself to grieve, you can navigate the journey with love and compassion. Remember, your pet's memory will forever remain in your heart, and with time, healing will come. To learn more about A Peaceful Return To Eden and how we can help you and your family, contact us at (888) 738-3884.