How to prepare an end-of-life plan for your pet with a vet
Preparing for the worst isn’t something anyone ever wants to do. Unfortunately, for many families with dogs, cats, and horses, preparing an end-of-life plan eventually becomes a necessity.
Any choices you make about an end-of-life plan for your pet need to be discussed with a qualified vet, so this article has been written in conjunction with our Head of Veterinary Services, Jen Wormleighton.
Read on, to discover advice about how to approach those difficult end-of-life decisions…
What is an ‘end-of-life plan’?
An ‘end-of-life plan’ describes the decisions you make on behalf of your treasured pet when there are no more treatment options, and their quality of life has deteriorated.
As upsetting as it is to prepare an end-of-life plan, your vet is there to support you and your beloved dog, cat, or horse.
Decide where you’d prefer to say goodbye
Palliative care – or ‘end-of-life care’ – means a dog, cat, or horse is supported to feel as comfortable as possible when they reach the latter stages of an incurable condition.
Once treatment options have been exhausted, it’s important to ensure an animal who’s suffering from a terminal illness enjoys the last chapter of their lives as much as possible.
As part of their palliative care plan, it’s essential to discuss where you’d prefer to say goodbye to your dog, cat, or horse. For instance, you may prefer to say goodbye to your dog or cat at home instead of at a veterinary practice.
Manage your anticipatory grief
While you’re dealing with such heart-breaking decisions as when to say goodbye to your much-loved dog, cat, or horse, you could experience grief even before they’ve passed away.
Anticipatory grief derives from the devastating realisation that you can no longer extend your pet’s life, and their time with you is soon coming to an end. Therefore, you may find yourself going through the grieving process in anticipation of losing your dog, cat, or horse.
Unfortunately, grief may cloud your judgement as to what to do on behalf of your terminally ill pet’s welfare – since you might convince yourself they shouldn’t be put to sleep. So, as you create an end-of-life plan for your pet, make sure you speak to your vet about how you’re feeling and reach out for support, as needed.
Amidst the sadness, please remember that even though their story is ending, they’ll always be part of you and your family, as you remember the wonderful memories you shared.
Have realistic expectations
It can be tempting to encourage your dog, cat, or horse to try activities they used to enjoy when you’re planning to give them the best last day. But if they’re terminally ill or suffering from a severely life-limiting condition, your pet is unlikely to be physically able to make the most of doing something active.
Additionally, when it’s time to talk about an end-of-life plan for your pet, find a balance between what you feel is best for them and what your vet advises.
Sometimes, due to the distress caused by hearing bad news about our cherished dog, cat, or horse, it could become difficult to process the medical implications of their condition. During this time, your vet should present the options available (options may be limited, depending on the situation), and give you time to digest that information before making a decision.
We understand how difficult it is to have to prepare an end-of-life plan for a loved one – since most of us, here at Animal Friends, are pet parents ourselves. For further information and support, please visit our Pet Bereavement Hub, where you can access a range of free resources.