Should I Stay When My Pet Is Put Down?
Many feel this is the ultimate gesture of love and comfort you can offer your pet. Some feel relief and comfort themselves by staying - they were able to see that their pet passed peacefully without pain and that it was truly gone. For many, not witnessing the death (and not seeing the body) makes it more difficult to accept that the pet is really gone. However, this can be traumatic, and you must ask yourself honestly whether you will be able to handle it. Uncontrolled emotions and tears (though natural) are likely to upset your pet.
Some vets are more open than others to allowing the owner to stay and some are also willing to put a pet to sleep at home. Consider what will be least traumatic for you and your pet and discuss your desires and concerns with your vet. If your practice is not able to accommodate your wishes then you may consider moving to one that can.
By Moria Anderson Allen, M.Ed.
