One suggestion, though: Don’t be in the room with them when you send them off. The emotional shock is too much. Just drop them off. This approach has saved me from unnecessary shock.
I refuse to let them die alone on a cold table in a vet's office. We had the whole family gathered around one girl, saying goodbye and hugging her in our backyard, the vet euthanized her there.
Our last dog died in my wife's arms as we called the vet to arrange things. No better way to go, and my wife was so glad she died in her home in loving arms. It's hard, yes, but we owe that to them.
Great advice. I wish someone had told me that for my previous dog. I will definitely follow it in a few years for our current dog.
Disagree. Our greatest regret was not being with one of our dogs when she passed at the hospital. The later regret is worse than the short lived shock.
I was in the room holding mine but kept my eyes closed. That way I could be with them but not see as I would have lost it.
I have to disagree. Had our Border Collie put down at 17 yo and our Lab put down at 15. I thought about it and couldn’t bear the thought of our dogs dying among strangers. No matter what I think it was a good decision. My doggies left the world with someone they loved.
On the contrary,it is cowardly to leave the room. If you really care for the dog you will be thete gently holding or petting as they pass.
I have hoped my pets were comforted by my presence and touch at that time. Finding my pet laying dead knowing they passed alone is even harder.
When I had my boxer put down years ago, I held him as it was happening. To literally feel his life leaving him was almost too much to bear. I sobbed like a baby. I don’t regret it, but I understand your point.
One suggestion, though: Don’t be in the room with them when you send them off. The emotional shock is too much. Just drop them off. This approach has saved me from unnecessary shock.
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No, it’s about being there for them. They look for you at the end. Be with them. It’s the last thing you can do for them. Hold them as they cross over.
Two dogs ago we had Angel Paws start coming to the house.
Not as stressful for everyone.
My little dog perked her ears up right before she passed like she was crossing over and saw a old friend on the other side. Actually made me feel a little better about it. Couldn’t just drop them off.