Our pets are part of our family, and we want them to be happy and comfortable no matter what. When it comes to the time when you have to say goodbye to a pet, it’s a difficult decision to make and one that many people struggle with.
Although it’s a tough decision, it can take away a little bit of your pain by knowing that they are happy and feel safe during the process. Many vets now offer end-of-life services for animals from the comfort of your own home. This means that you don’t need to travel and put your pet through an ordeal. They simply pass away in their home where they’re comfortable and at ease.
The Benefit of at Home End-Of-Life Options
Although it’s a decision than none of us ever really want to make, it’s a sad reality for all pet owners as their beloved companions age.
Selecting the home-based end-of-life option can make it easier for your pet and for you too, alongside a whole range of other benefits.
Comfortable and Stress Free
Pets don’t like to visit the vets generally. It’s a stressful experience for them and for you too. Having the vet come out to your home will make your pet feel more at ease, meaning that euthanasia won’t be a negative process for them.
They’re happy at home by the fire in their favourite comfortable spot with their family around them, which is right where they want to be.
No Need to Move Your Pet
When you pet is coming to the end of their life, they may struggle to move around a little more. This makes the practicalities of visiting the vet less viable. If you don’t drive and have a heavy dog, then it’s almost impossible to actually get them to the vet for treatment.
If your pet is old and struggling to walk, then it may also cause them a lot of pain the visit the vets. If the vet comes to visit them instead, they can stay right where they are without having to move around and cause more damage.
They Stay with You
All your pet wants is to be with you. Dogs especially, attach themselves to humans and form a strong bond. So much so that they get upset when you aren’t there.
While it may be difficult for many people to be in the room when their beloved friend is put to sleep, it’s important that you’re there to keep them happy. They love you unconditionally and you need to be the last thing that they see.
At home, this allows you to have the support of your family around you and to mourn in the comfort of your own home.
Burial & After the Procedure
In a veterinary surgery, there’s bound to be a huge waiting list, which is understandable. However, if you wish to spend time with your pet before or even after the procedure, then you won’t have the luxury. Although the vet won’t rush you out of the room in an insensitive manner. It will be clear that the room is required for the next patient fairly soon afterwards, so you’ll need to clear out.
While some people may wish to arrange a cremation, a burial may be much easier if your pet is euthanised at home. This avoids transportation worries and is much more practical.
Adjustments for Your Home
It’s not just the dreaded day that you need to think about. While your pet may be ill or old, their quality of life may still be good enough that they can stay with you a little longer. However, if their movement is restricted or if home is difficult to get around due to stairs, then there may be some adjustments that you can make to your home to make their last few months a little easier.
Visiting the vet regularly can also become a chore if they need medication, but struggle with the veterinary process.
End-of-life homecare can mean that the vet comes to your home to advise on changes and to administer medication in the comfort of your own house, eliminating the need for travel and making your pet’s life more enjoyable and comfortable right until the end.
When to Make the Difficult Decision
Although the vet can advise you, you know your pet better than anyone and you know when they’re starting to act differently, when they’ve stopped eating or drinking or when they’re tired and have had enough.
It is a difficult decision to make, but you should keep in mind that making the decision, when you know the time is right, is the best thing for your pet.
How to Arrange End of Life Care
When your pet ages or starts to develop terminal medical conditions, it’s time to have a conversation with your vet. Some vets will offer or recommend homecare as end-of-life support. However, there are many more vets available if your personal vet doesn’t offer this yet.
As soon as you know the time is drawing near, you should consult the vet to discuss options. You can’t plan an exact time until you’re really sure, but the vet with prepare you ahead of time and discuss the process.
Once you’re sure that your pet is ready, your vet can arrange an appointment with you to attend your home. If the situation becomes critical, they will then already have your details if the appointment is an emergency.
What’s the Process?
Once your vet has taken your details, they will arrive at your home at the allotted time. It’s recommended to have your pet in their favourite spot, with a favourite toy and their family around them.
The vet will administer the treatment, then step away so that you can spend time with them as they pass.
Your options after this could be:
- Your vet leaves you the grieve and will advice on a burial process.
- Your vet can take away your pet for a planned cremation.
Summary
Opting for homecare at the end of your pet’s life is the best option for both you and your pet, allowing you to spend more time together and making them feel more comfortable.