By Courtney Prue | September 5, 2024

How to cope with having to euthanise a dog

Deciding to euthanise your dog is one of the most difficult decisions a pet owner can face. The emotional impact of saying goodbye to a loyal companion can be overwhelming, and seeking help to navigate this situation is completely natural.

This post guides pet owners through the tough process of coping with the aftermath of having to euthanise a dog. This includes the immediate decisions that need to be made after euthanasia, such as choosing between burial, cremation, or donation to a learning institution, and planning a memorial service for your pet. We will also explore how professional pet loss support and grief counselling can help pet owners cope with the pain.

What to do immediately after you euthanise a dog

The immediate aftermath of having to euthanise a dog can be overwhelming. However, there are decisions to be made. Let’s take an in-depth look at each option so that you can make an informed decision.

Immediately after the euthanasia, if you haven’t made the decision already, you’ll need to decide whether to bury, cremate, or donate your dog’s body to a learning institution such as a veterinary college or university.

Burial can be a compelling choice because burial gives you a physical place to visit and remember your pet. However, it is important to consider local regulations before burying your beloved pet, as some local councils may have restrictions or guidelines on performing burials for a pet.

Cremation is a practical and sentimental way that allows you to honour your dog’s memory. You can store the ashes in a special urn, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place for you and your pets. Private cremations may cost more as your dog will be individually cremated. Communal cremation typically costs less since the cremation process happens alongside other pets.

Donation is a less common option provided by certain veterinary services. This involves donating your pet’s body for scientific research or educational purposes. This can be a comforting choice for some people, knowing that their pet’s passing could contribute to advancements in veterinary medicine.

Each of these options has its own considerations, so make the choice you feel is right and best honours the pet’s memory.

How to plan a memorial service for your dog

Apart from these options, you can also plan a memorial service or funeral for your dog. Here are some things you should keep in mind when planning a memorial.

  • Determine the type of service
    This could be a simple, small gathering or a larger event with your pet’s favourite family members and friends involved. You could also consider a virtual memorial service if a physical gathering is not possible.
  • Choose a location
    Ideally, the location should be a place of significance for your dog. This could be your backyard, a favourite park, or even the beach.
  • Plan out the order of service
    Plan out what you want the service location to look like first. You can include options like a moment of silence, sharing the attendees’ favourite memories about your dog, or making a symbolic gesture like lighting a candle.
  • Personalise the service
    You can make the service feel a bit closer to home by displaying photos of your dog’s favourite toys or playing your dog’s favourite music.
  • Invite attendees
    Invite family members, friends, and others who loved your dog. Let them know the date, time, and location of the service, and what they can expect during the event.
How to cope during the aftermath of pet loss

Navigating the emotions that come with having to euthanise a dog can have long-standing effects. One of the most important things you can do is seek support. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, and you can seek support from your friends and family who knew your dog and understand your loss. Sharing memories, stories, and feelings with them can be a comforting way to remember your beloved friend.

Why you should consider professional support

You can also choose professional pet loss support and grief counselling services to help cope with the loss of your beloved companion. Here’s why you should consider it:

  • Expert guidance
    These professionals understand the bond between pets and pet owners, and can provide expert guidance on navigating the complex emotions that come with losing a pet — helping you process your feelings in a healthy way.
  • Safe space
    They provide a safe space for you to freely express your feelings without fear of being judged or misunderstood.
  • Support for the family
    If you have children or other family members who are also struggling with the loss of your dog, these professionals can help them navigate their feelings too.
  • Ongoing support
    Professional support can be available for as long as you need, helping you navigate the ups and downs that come with coping with the loss of a pet.
Make dealing with pet loss a bit easier with support

Losing a pet is never easy. However, with peaceful home euthanasia options becoming commonplace, it can sometimes be the best choice to help your pet avoid unnecessary suffering, especially when they’re in acute pain or nearing the end of their lives.

The aftermath of having to euthanise a dog can be a challenging time to navigate. But with the right support and resources, you can navigate this path in a way that honours your pet’s life and helps you heal.

FAQs

Is euthanasia painful for dogs?

No, if done with the oversight of a certified veterinarian, your dog won’t experience any pain during the process. They will administer an anaesthetic before the euthanasia injection.

How long does dog euthanasia last?

In-clinic euthanasia appointments are usually 20 minutes. Rest Your Paws euthanasia appointments are typically 1 hour, which gives us plenty of time to give a sedative, allow your beloved dog to relax, personalise the appointment and then give the final medication. The euthanasia drug itself works within just a couple of minutes, and sometimes less in pets that are very ill. We will give you as much time as you need and help you to take mementos such as clippings of fur or paw prints if you choose to. If Rest Your Paws is handling the cremation, we will gently take your pet into our care and arrange transfer to the crematorium.

How can I help my other pets cope with losing their companion?

Remaining pets can grieve for their lost friend, so allowing them to say goodbye can help them understand and come to terms with what has happened. We’ve written a blog post about pet grief to answer more questions on this topic.

What are some meaningful ways to memorialise my pet at home?

You can memorialise your pet at home by creating a photo album, planting a tree or shrub in their honour, or making a special place in your home to remember them. You could also consider creating a memory box with their favourite items or having a piece of jewellery made with their ashes.

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