If an animal can suffer as much as a human can (and it's been proven that many do suffer as much), then they should be given the same consideration that they would give their fellow man. - Socrates
Help! My pet is going to pass-away soon
When your pet passes away- whether at home or a vet clinic- you as a pet owner have options on how to proceed:
You have Choices
- As the pet owner, you can choose who handles your pets cremation
- You do not have to use the crematory your Veterinarian Clinic uses; oftentimes there is a 5 - 10 business day delay from when you leave your pet at the veterinarian clinic to when you receive your pet's cremated remains. If your pet is euthanized at your local veterinarian clinic, simply ask them if they can hold your pet until we arrive to receive your pet. * Generally this is done the same day, however keep in mind if your appointment is scheduled for the end of the day, we may not be able to arrive at the veterinarian clinic until the following morning. *
- Some veterinary clinics work with pet crematories that are not local - some are 50 + miles away.
In the event you decide to use Tree of Life Cremation to handle your pets cremation, you’re more than welcome to call-ahead and let us know, ask questions you may have or just get relief from the unknown that you may be facing.
In a perfect scenario, our pet would pass naturally at home, in their cozy bed. That way, we avoid the painful “last car ride” and the feeling of helplessness that comes along with it.
As with humans; animals instinctively have an innate way of handling their own passing. Whether it be shying away from loved ones in a home, going somewhere quiet and private in the wild - they know when it is time.
If you are aware that your beloved pet is aging, possibly succumbing to an illness, it is a good idea to make an appointment with your veterinarian to address your concerns and answer any questions you may have so you are prepared in the event of a natural death. The following are some signs you may notice as your pet prepares and transitions towards death:
- Confusion, loss of appetite for food and/or drinking water, fatigue, incontinence, involuntary movement of muscles, slowed breathing, lack of desire for things they once enjoyed, difficulty getting comfortable, crying/yelping and at times vomiting.
Some of these signs may appear a few months to a few hours before your pet passes:
- Self-grooming has slowed, dehydration, weight loss, lack of desire for the activities they ones loved, creating distance from you, not connecting with you visually or in general - visual impairment, restlessness and even their smell can change and become “different” to you
If you notice these changes, it is recommended to:
- Remain calm for your pet
- Decrease noise and loud-disturbances
- Create a more peaceful environment for them (think comfort/reassurance)
- Special blanket, pet bed, pillow, toy(s)
When the time comes and your pet has transitioned from this life you will notice:
- Take the time that you and your family needs to say your goodbyes
- Allow other pets to stop and visit with their fellow friend - they already know something is askew. They grieve as well.
- Complete relaxation of their body, at times this includes releasing of bladder and bowels (it’s OK to clean-up once more for them with baby wipes, wet paper towels or a bath towel)
- No respirations for 30 minutes (you can place a small mirror in front of their nose)
- Check for a heartbeat
- Eyes may or may not remain open
- If passing happens over night, you can gently move your beloved pet to a cooler part of the home until you can contact the crematory staff
Helpful items pet owners can use at home to care for their deceased pet until crematory staff arrives:
- Puppy-pads / plastic liners can be placed under the pet
- Under the puppy pad / plastic liner can be the pets bedding, blanket, pillow to rest on, etc.
- From there the pet can be placed in a basket, plastic tote, laundry basket - something that will safely and securely contain the pet. With larger animals the pet owner may not be able to do this and that is perfectly OK
