By Dr. Teri Sue & Gabbie Bird
September is recognized as National Pet Memorial Month; we would like to take some time to honor and remember the beloved pets that we have shared our lives with, who have taught us unconditional love, and who will live on in our hearts forever.
We are incredibly experienced with helping pets transition when the time comes; it is a space of honor and vulnerability. There can be a lot of questions surrounding end of life care and timing. We find there is no right time or wrong time. Often, pets seem to feel better the day of, which may be because they sense a change, a shift, or something new to look forward to. At this time in their journey, our pets are usually not getting better because of age or illness. It is difficult to know the moment before further decline. It may feel as though we do not have the right to make such as decision, but we have given them everything they have ever needed up until this point; making this decision can be a final act of love and compassion.
Many of us have had the heartbreaking experience of losing a pet, and whether it was years ago or just recently, the emotions can still be felt. Our relationships with our pets are unique - they support us through the transitions in our lives, they teach us how to be our best selves, and give us a sense of purpose. The loss of such a connection can bring feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety, and waves of grief that can continue long after we have said goodbye. These are stages of grief that are normal and healthy. There are many places to find support if needed for healing.
We ask that you give yourself and your loved ones grace; allow yourself to go through your grief in your own way, and at your own pace. There will come a time where the sadness will subside and make room for peace, and the happy memories that bring us joy. After all, you were the person that your pet chose to share it’s life with - you developed a bond like no other, and that will never go away.
Part of the healing process is finding a way to memorialize our pets - meditate on how you can take time this month to honor the memory of your beloved pet. Consider sharing memories with friends and family, write a story, poem or song about your pet or to your pet, make a donation in your pet’s name, visit your pet’s favorite place, create memorial artwork or a space in your garden with their favorite herbs, plants and personalized forget-me-nots.
We would like to take time this month to share memories and honor the beloved pets that were once part of our lives, and our community at Balance Veterinary Care. If you feel inclined, please share a favorite picture of your beloved pet that lives in your heart, so we can celebrate the joy they have brought during their time on earth with us.
We provide in-home end of life care, and we are here to answer any questions or provide guidance during this difficult time. As you prepare for your pet’s transition, it may help to think through aftercare and memorial options in advance. Some families choose burial, while others prefer cremation—if you choose cremation, you may also decide whether you’d like your pet’s ashes returned, and in what type of urn. Many families also find comfort in memorializing their pet with keepsakes such as a clay or ink paw print, a nose print, or a small collection of fur.
We are grateful to partner with World By the Tail, Inc., who offer thoughtful resources for honoring your pet’s memory. We also provide an End of Life packet with information and support materials, which is available at any time upon request.
September is recognized as National Pet Memorial Month; we would like to take some time to honor and remember the beloved pets that we have shared our lives with, who have taught us unconditional love, and who will live on in our hearts forever.
We are incredibly experienced with helping pets transition when the time comes; it is a space of honor and vulnerability. There can be a lot of questions surrounding end of life care and timing. We find there is no right time or wrong time. Often, pets seem to feel better the day of, which may be because they sense a change, a shift, or something new to look forward to. At this time in their journey, our pets are usually not getting better because of age or illness. It is difficult to know the moment before further decline. It may feel as though we do not have the right to make such as decision, but we have given them everything they have ever needed up until this point; making this decision can be a final act of love and compassion.
Many of us have had the heartbreaking experience of losing a pet, and whether it was years ago or just recently, the emotions can still be felt. Our relationships with our pets are unique - they support us through the transitions in our lives, they teach us how to be our best selves, and give us a sense of purpose. The loss of such a connection can bring feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety, and waves of grief that can continue long after we have said goodbye. These are stages of grief that are normal and healthy. There are many places to find support if needed for healing.
We ask that you give yourself and your loved ones grace; allow yourself to go through your grief in your own way, and at your own pace. There will come a time where the sadness will subside and make room for peace, and the happy memories that bring us joy. After all, you were the person that your pet chose to share it’s life with - you developed a bond like no other, and that will never go away.
Part of the healing process is finding a way to memorialize our pets - meditate on how you can take time this month to honor the memory of your beloved pet. Consider sharing memories with friends and family, write a story, poem or song about your pet or to your pet, make a donation in your pet’s name, visit your pet’s favorite place, create memorial artwork or a space in your garden with their favorite herbs, plants and personalized forget-me-nots.
We would like to take time this month to share memories and honor the beloved pets that were once part of our lives, and our community at Balance Veterinary Care. If you feel inclined, please share a favorite picture of your beloved pet that lives in your heart, so we can celebrate the joy they have brought during their time on earth with us.
We provide in-home end of life care, and we are here to answer any questions or provide guidance during this difficult time. As you prepare for your pet’s transition, it may help to think through aftercare and memorial options in advance. Some families choose burial, while others prefer cremation—if you choose cremation, you may also decide whether you’d like your pet’s ashes returned, and in what type of urn. Many families also find comfort in memorializing their pet with keepsakes such as a clay or ink paw print, a nose print, or a small collection of fur.
We are grateful to partner with World By the Tail, Inc., who offer thoughtful resources for honoring your pet’s memory. We also provide an End of Life packet with information and support materials, which is available at any time upon request.