Death of a Pet, Dog or Cat

The death of a pet is often considered of no significance – particularly by people who are not pet lovers. However for many people a pet has become an integral part of their life and may be treated as a family member. Many people and in particular single or elderly people, value their pets as constant companions and upon death may feel the loss as much as that of a family member.

Even if you are prepared for the death of a pet it may not make the loss any easier.

As a pet owner with a sick animal you may have to make the decision to medically end their life. The law on euthanasia does not apply to pets. This will be a decision about how much quality of life they have and if they need a peaceful and painless end to their suffering. You can consider factors such as whether they are eating, interacting with family members and their pain levels. Your vet can help guide you when you have to make this difficult choice.

• To grieve the death of a pet is normal. You can and should grieve in the same way as you would for a human. Just because they are an animal it doesn’t make your feelings any less valid. If you feel unable to express how you feel then you can find pet loss support groups such as the Pet Bereavement Support Service .

• Your pet played an important role in your life, it may have even been your sole companion and you should acknowledge your loss. You can do whatever feels right to you to remember your pet. You can have a burial at a pet cemetery or have a cremation and scatter the ashes somewhere special. Some people choose to keep pictures or plant a tree as a memorial.

• Children often find the death of a pet very difficult. This may be the first time they will experience death and you should prepare your child if you know the pet is going to die. It is helpful as a family to think of a way to remember your pet.

The death of anyone, including a pet, reminds us of our own mortality and may cause old feelings of grief and sadness to resurface. Hiding grief is never a good thing. For more help and advice you can contact the Pet Bereavement Support Service on 0800 096 6606.