Losing a pet can be overwhelmingly distressing for pet owners. The emotional turmoil can be so intense that some find it too difficult to remain present with their animals until the end. However, veterinarians strongly advise otherwise—they emphasize the importance of staying with pets during their final moments. This sentiment was recently echoed by Jessi Dietrich’s viral tweet, sparking a conversation about the significance of companionship in a pet’s final moments.
A veterinarian I spoke with confided that the most difficult part of his job was witnessing the absence of owners during euthanasia. He shared that a staggering 90% of pet parents opted out of being present for their companion’s final moments. This realization struck a chord – the thought of an animal searching for its beloved owner in its final moments is truly heartbreaking.
In South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province, Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital echoed the sentiment shared in Jessi Dietrich’s viral tweet. Despite the difficulty involved, the veterinary clinic emphasized the importance for pet owners to remain with their animals until their final moments, offering care and companionship throughout.
Despite the challenging and undoubtedly heart-wrenching circumstances, the clinic’s “weary, broken-hearted vet” pleaded with families bringing their pets in for a peaceful, pain-free end not to abandon them.
I recommend staying with them. Don’t let them pass away in an unfamiliar place that they dislike. The clinic has observed that many pet owners are unaware that their pets search for them when they are left behind. They simply want to find their loved one among the people around them. When they are sick, frightened, or old and seeking your comfort, pets don’t understand why you’ve left them. If you feel it will be too challenging for you, please don’t give up on them.
Melbourne veterinarian Dr. Lauren Bugeja acknowledges that euthanizing elderly pets at home can be a deeply emotional experience. She points out that while people may sometimes find it too distressing to remain in the room, animals generally feel calm and comfortable during this time.
Dr. Bugeja prioritizes minimizing fear and distress for animals during euthanasia. She explains that alongside her nurse, they take the time to calmly talk to and comfort each animal in their final moments.
Recognizing that unfamiliar environments can heighten fear in pets, Dr. Bugeja recommends staying with your pet during euthanasia, especially if performed at a clinic. Alone in a vet’s office or consultation room, a pet might feel disoriented and anxious. Your presence can provide comfort and familiarity during this emotional time.
