By Dr. Karen Whala, Co-founder of CodaPet

Losing a pet is never easy, and the decision to euthanize a dog can be the most difficult choice a pet owner will ever have to make. However, sometimes it is the most humane option when your beloved friend is suffering from an incurable illness or injury. It is natural for pet owners to feel guilty about having to make this difficult decision, but it’s essential to understand that it is not your fault, and you are not alone in this experience. First of all, Please know that you are Not making a decision to ‘kill’ your dog, you are making the decision to ‘end their dying process’ and all the pain, anguish and suffering that it brings. If there were something you could do within your power to not have to consider euthanasia,, I know you would do it without hesitation.  Here are some tips on how to cope with the decision and not feel guilty for euthanizing your beloved dog.

1. Seek Professional Advice

It’s crucial to seek professional advice from a veterinarian when considering euthanasia for your dog. They can assess your dog’s condition and let you know whether anything further can be done and if its the right time.  They can also provide you with all the necessary information about the process. A veterinarian will also help you understand what your dog may be going through and provide you with options that can help alleviate their pain or discomfort.   If euthanasia is the best option, your veterinarian can discuss the benefits of in-home dog euthanasia versus in a clinic or hospital environment

2. Understand That It’s Not Your Fault

It’s natural to feel guilty, or worse, cast blame on yourself or others for having to face this difficult decision.  Like any loss, grief can take many forms including guilt, blame, intense sadness and even anger, and it’s essential to understand that it’s not your fault. It is incredibly unselfish to accept the suffering that you will feel from their absence in order to keep them from suffering further.  We know that if it was within your power to help your pet, you would for sure do so.  It can very much help feelings of guilt by soliciting the support of others who also know your pet, this can sometimes help ease the guilt that a pet owner will sometimes feel in making this decision alone.

3. Focus on The Positive Memories

Instead of dwelling on the negative aspects of the situation, try focusing on the positive memories you have shared with your dog. Celebrate their life while they are still with you by doing a doggy ‘bucket list’.  Provided you have the privilege of enjoying their presence a bit more, perhaps consider inviting their favorite people to visit, feeding their favorite food, taking them for a ‘walk’ in the stroller to the park or simply allowing your dog to lay in their favorite spot in the sun.  These last moments together can be very precious and can help ease the pain of losing them and remind you of how much joy they brought into your life.

4. Seek Support

The grieving process can be challenging, and it’s essential to seek support from friends, family, or a support group. Talking to someone who understands what you are going through can help you cope with the loss of your beloved pet. It’s also important to give yourself time to grieve and process your emotions.

5. Remember That You Are Not Alone

Many pet owners have been through the same experience, and it’s important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available online, such as forums and support groups, where you can connect with other pet owners who have gone through similar experiences. One popular Facebook Group called ‘Losing Lulu’ is one of many support groups created for pet owners who have experienced a loss.

Euthanizing a beloved dog is never an easy decision, but it is sometimes the most humane, unselfish and gentle option. It’s natural for pet owners to feel guilty about making such a difficult choice, but it’s essential to understand that it’s not your fault. Seeking professional advice, focusing on positive memories, seeking support, and remembering that you are not alone can all help ease the pain of losing a beloved pet.