If you own a pet, you need to be ready to say goodbye to them at some point of their life. Hopefully, this doesn't happen before they have lived a long, healthy and happy life with you – however, sometimes illness and injury can get in the way. Euthanasia can be heartbreaking. But it is also a final act of love.
Deciding to end your pet’s life is far from easy, when they have brought you endless amounts of love and joy. If your pet is suffering and medical treatment is no longer an option, euthanasia might be the only other alternative.
According to the Australian Veterinary Association, “Euthanasia is the act of inducing humane death with the minimum of pain, fear or distress to the animal involved. It is most often used with terminally unwell or injured animals, where the prognosis is considered hopeless, and should also be considered for animals with intractable behaviour problems.”
Euthanising your pet is an extremely tough decision to make, but ultimately it can save them from further pain and discomfort. Your vet can’t make the decision to euthanise for you, but they can help you decide when and how to do it, and provide you with other support and services such as cremation.
The purpose of euthanasia is to provide a pain-free and gentle death. At times, making this decision might be urgent. The euthanasia might happen at a vet clinic or in your home (or in the case of large animals, in their yard / stable).
“Ask your veterinarian to talk frankly with you, and consider getting a second opinion if you’re in doubt. Make sure that you’re not prolonging your animal friend’s suffering because of your own fear of letting go. The tendency is to wait too long, at the expense of the animal you love.” – PETA
It’s important that you look after yourself, your family as well as other pets in your home following the event. Emotions will probably be running high, so give yourself the opportunity to grieve.
“The feelings may be a mixture of grief, relief, guilt, or simply a practical approach of necessity. There is no wrong way to grieve over the loss of a pet or the decisions you make.” – Greencross Vets.
For most people, pets are a member of the family and nothing less. The loss of a pet is definitely not to be underestimated. If you or someone you know has just said goodbye to a pet, check out this factsheet from PETA about loss here.
I joined a couple of months ago and already have a job over Easter and a 2 month job in the Riverland later in the year. I have received a number of enquiries from other people asking me to care for their animals and home. I have been astounded at the amount of interest, and it is very encouraging. I did originally join another agency, as I had never joined a housesitting agency before, just housesat by word of mouth. I didn't get any work at all with the other agency, then saw your site, and can't believe the interest. It's a great site to use, with lot's of useful information for the sitter as well. Thank you once again for an excellent service. Vicki
COPYRIGHT © AUSSIE HOUSE SITTERS 2004 - 2024
Use of this website indicates that you have read and accept the Website Terms of Use