As your pet nears the end of their life, they will need specialized care. Also, you will need to prepare yourself for their passing. The following guide explains the main aspects of end of life pet care, from hospice to pet memorials.

End of Life Care for Your Pet

Making the Transition

The inability or refusal to eat, vomiting, incontinence, and respiratory issues can all be signs that an elderly pet is about to pass away. As your pet declines, keep their food, water, and bed within easy reach. Their bedding should be clean and in a quiet spot that’s away from family foot traffic. Cherish time with them each day, but respect that they may need to sleep most of the time. You may want to consider pet memorial and cremation options early on, especially if you have children.

Keeping Them Comfortable

The final stages of an animal’s life can last for several days or weeks. The goal is to keep them comfortable. Make sure everyone at home understands what’s happening and what the pet needs. Keep other pets away if it distresses either animal. Many veterinary practices will perform a hospice assessment and make a customized care plan for your pet, which may include modified food or medicine to assist with pain.

What to Know About Euthanasia

The Euthanasia Process

Putting your pet to sleep is often the most humane option if they are very ill, can’t walk, or be made comfortable. Ask their vet where the process can take place — usually in their office or at home. If you go to a vet clinic, take a beloved toy or the pet’s bedding to make them more comfortable.

The drugs that most veterinarians use are a sedative and pentobarbital administered through an IV. First, this will quickly and painlessly render the animal unconscious. Once unconscious, after a few minutes the animal’s heart will stop. It’s your choice whether to stay with your pet or not during the process. 

What If My Pet Dies at Home?

If your pet dies at home, call their veterinarian or a pet memorial and cremation service for assistance with their remains. Cover their body and put it in a safe, clean place away from other pets until it’s time to remove it for burial or cremation.

The end of life for your pet will be comfortable and peaceful when it’s handled with care. Char Mac Pet Cremation, in Cincinnati, OH, is a family-owned business that offers compassionate, professional services during a difficult time. They provide pet memorials, cremation, urns, and burial markers and cases. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (513) 851-5791 for information.