Losing a pet is one of the most emotionally challenging moments for any pet owner. When your beloved pet dies at home, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. This guide will walk you through the steps to take, giving you information to better aid you in coping with such a traumatic situation with care and compassion, while being mindful of practical needs.
- Check for Signs of Death
If you’re unsure whether your pet has passed away, check for signs of life. Look for any movement, breathing, or response. Sometimes, pets might appear lifeless but are still alive. If in doubt, call your vet for guidance. You could also see if they rouse in response to their favourite treat!
- Place them in a curled position on a blanket
Placing them in a curled position makes it easier to transport them before rigor mortis sets in (which can start 3-4 hours after death and take up to 12 hours to complete). A blanket can also deal with the risk that they may wee or poo after dying. This may not happen immediately but does vary by pet. If they haven’t eaten or drunk much beforehand, it may not even happen at all. But best to be prepared. If you use a favourite blanket, then they can be transported and even cremated in this, which might feel comforting.
- Remember your other pets
If you have other pets at home, give them the chance to smell their companion. This helps them understand what happened, rather than leaving them confused about their friend’s absence. Pets naturally know how to process these situations, so if they seem distant, it’s okay. The scent of the deceased pet is important for the surviving pets, and being in the same room is enough to provide that.
- Decide on Pet Burial or Cremation
One of the key decisions you’ll have to make is whether to cremate or bury your pet. Many pet owners opt for cremation, as it allows them to keep a part of their pet’s remains, such as in a decorative urn. Alternatively, if you have space, you may choose to bury your pet in your yard or a pet cemetery. Be sure to check local regulations if you decide to bury your pet at home. At Kind, we offer individual cremations and are soon going to be offering burial plots. So watch this space.
- Take a Moment to Say Goodbye
When your pet dies at home, it can be a shock. Give yourself some time to process the loss and say your goodbyes. This is an important emotional step, allowing you to honour the bond you shared.
- Consider a Pet Memorial
Creating a memorial for your pet can be a comforting way to honour their memory. You could choose to plant a tree in their name, create a photo album, or even commission a custom memorial stone. A special place where you can reflect on your pet’s life can bring emotional healing. At Kind, we give you a start by providing you, for free, with a fur cutting and forget me not plant seeds. You can also purchase clay and ink paw prints.
- Acknowledge your grief
We aren’t always good at expressing our emotions but the death of a pet can be one of life’s biggest losses. Talking about grief can help, although it’s not for everyone. Grief is a very personal experience. At Kind, we provide you with a black wristband, for free. This serves two purposes. Firstly, it can represent a period of mourning for you. Wear it until it naturally breaks off. This can be a helpful symbolism of drawing a line and enabling you to move on. Of course, you may still remain sad and miss your pet, but the initial period of grieving may be at an end. Secondly, it can help signify to others that you are in mourning.
- Seek emotional support when needed
Dealing with the death of a pet can be as difficult as losing a family member. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or pet loss support groups. Speaking to others who have been through similar experiences can help you navigate your grief.
- Create a lasting tribute
Building on the pet memorial idea, consider doing something to celebrate the life of your pet. Whether it’s sharing stories and memories with loved ones, writing a poem, or even making a donation to an animal charity in their name, these small actions can help keep their memory alive.
- How to prepare yourself and your family for the loss of a pet
While it’s difficult, planning for your pet’s death ahead of time can reduce stress. Make sure to have a plan in place, discuss the details with family members, and inform your vet of your preferences if your pet has a terminal illness. It’s also important to prepare children in the household for this difficult moment. This can be an important life learning for them and give them skills to deal with the death of other loved ones in the future.
Conclusion
The death of a pet at home can be a heartbreaking experience, but knowing what to do next can make the process a little easier. Take time to grieve, reach out for support, and honour your pet’s memory in a way that feels right to you. Whatever you choose, your pet’s spirit will always live on in your heart.
