Losing a Pet is Really Hard
It's okay if you need to talk to someone
It is really hard to lose a pet. A lot of us feel like we can't really grieve about it to others, like we shouldn't be so upset about an animal. But, that's not true - in fact there is actual research that shows losing a dog can be as hard as losing a loved one.
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If you're feeling alone in your grief and need comfort, there is nothing wrong with reaching out. Thank you to a redditor who shared this list of Pet Loss Hotlines.
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Knowing When It's Time
Quality of Life Measurements
Talk to anyone whose pet suffers from a debilitating disease and they will tell you the hardest part is knowing when it's time.
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Truth be told, we're never ready but it's important that we give our pets the best quality of life possible. I was referred to a great website that listed multiple Quality of Life Tests.
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Helping them Cross the Bridge
Going to the Vet or in the Comfort of your Home?
Maybe the hardest part about loving a pet is that many times you have to choose when it's their time for them. Having just experienced this process, I wonder if I can commit to getting another dog knowing I may have to do it again one day.
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I struggled with deciding to lay my loved one to rest at home or at the vet. I knew the comfort of our home was better but how hard would it be for me to see the spot he took his final breaths in? I found comfort in speaking with other dog lovers and also reading pros and cons for both before I ultimately decided to do it at home.
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The Process itself
What to Expect
This will be brief because it's so hard to write about as it is too fresh but one of the things I sought out was a play-by-play of the process.
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What Happens During Euthanasia
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