Preparing to Say Goodbye

It is never easy to say goodbye, whether it be a close friend, family member or a beloved pet.  Oftentimes our beloved pets are easily considered to be our closest friend and a true member of the family.  This is one of the reasons it is so difficult to say goodbye.

Whether they are covered in fur, feathers, or even scales, they manage to bring us much joy and comfort in their short years with us.  We know that when we invite them into our homes and lives, that we will normally outlive them.  It is why it is so important to create and capture all the memories we can with them while they are here.

Sadly, at some point, we will have to make decisions on how we want to honor them when they do pass.  Sometimes we are put in an impossible situation where we have to decide on helping them pass to prevent any further suffering.  It is always best to have the input from family members who love and adore your pet as much as you do, as well as a good relationship with your veterinarian who can help you through the decision making process.  These are not ever easy conversations, but they are ones that will help reduce the stress and doubts you may have when the time arrives.

Some ways to help better prepare yourself for what to expect when that time does come is to talk to friends and family that may have had similar experiences.  You can also start visiting local pet crematories and ask questions.  To know beforehand and to meet those that run these services will help calm any anxieties you may have when it comes to the aftercare of your pet.

In today’s age of social media, there are support groups and experts out there that can also assist in helping with these difficult decisions.  At the end of the day it is always difficult to say goodbye.  Whether they are sick or reaching that age where it is just difficult for them to thrive, to plan ahead is not giving up on them, it is just preparing yourself for when that time comes.

During this preparation time, you can start compiling favorite photos or videos of them.  You may also want to get more photos with different family members and friends that have been there and love your pet almost as much as you.  Take them to some of your favorite locations, relive moments from when they were young.  Enjoy every minute you get with them and plan ahead to lessen the feeling of being overwhelmed.