Saying Goodbye To A Pet At Christmas

Christmas is probably the last time of year that anyone would choose to say goodbye to a beloved pet. Unfortunately, pet illness and aging waits for no one, or no particular season, and our responsibility as pet owners, to give our beloved pets the best and most dignified end possible, does not diminish at this time of year either.

If there is any consolation for an owner facing this decision, perhaps it is knowing that they can create a calm, cosy, loving environment for their pet, surrounded by loved ones, during a time when family members are visiting and hopefully, work and/or school commitments are reduced.

As the whole world slows down a little bit for the festive season, perhaps it allows for the mind to concentrate on a pet’s needs more easily. We want you to know that our commitment to your pets remains as unwavering as ever over Christmas and New Year. We are here to provide the very same caring, professional, and warm service in which we specialise all year round.

How can you help your pet?

The familiarity and comfort of their own home is often the best place to say goodbye to a pet, to prevent upheaval and discomfort in their last moments. In the days, hours, even minutes leading up to the event, there are things an owner can do to ensure their pet is relaxed and comfortable. All the usual things: continuing with medications, favourite treats in abundance, warmth, support and care apply. Christmas has the potential to pose challenges in this area though, for example, if a furry friend isn’t a fan of bright lights and decorations, or large crowds and loud Christmas cheer. These stresses can usually be calmed simply by providing them with their own space, preferably in their usual spot, away from any festivities which they’d rather not partake in.

One difficult, but important, point to note is that although euthanasia at Christmas is a very difficult thing to have to face, prolonging a pet’s life so that they see one final festive period may not be in their best interests. Owners should rest assured though, that they do not have to be alone in making this decision. Whilst ultimately the decision to euthanise a pet is the owner’s, we are here to help and will advise in any way we can. We have some helpful tools to assess quality of life and assessing potential suffering, so no one should have to shoulder the full weight of the decision alone.

How can you help yourself and the family?

If a pet is suffering, although it may seem the hardest thing to do, letting them go over the Christmas period might mean fewer regrets in the long term. We understand why many owners worry that future Christmas celebrations will be tainted with the loss of a pet; how about flipping this thought on its head, and using future Christmases as a time to reflect upon, and celebrate, the happy life and happy times shared with them instead?

Surrounding oneself with supportive people can be invaluable for some, in order to get through these difficult times. It can also be helpful to reduce as much Yuletide pressure on oneself as possible – is a four course Christmas feast absolutely necessary this year, for example, with ALL of the trimmings? Or would a low-key Christmas celebration with close family and friends suffice? Sometimes we need to give ourselves a break, and losing a pet is most definitely one of those times. Conversely, some people find being able to throw themselves into the preparations is helpful – so whatever works for you is what is best.

There is other support available, too, when things feel extra tough. Pet bereavement counsellors are available, and they can really help pet owners work through and come to terms with their loss. The Blue Cross have a team available every single day of the year to provide support, and details can be found here.

If there is one final offer of comfort that we’d like to extend to anyone facing this impossibly difficult decision over the Christmas period, it is that anyone who makes it, for the welfare of their pet, is truly a brave and loving pet-parent.

If you need any support, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our care coordinators.