It’s time for our monthly vet spotlight! In our newest blog, Dr. Kristin Crocker with Everloved Veterinary in Mobile discusses the difficult topic of euthanasia. While no one wants to think about this, end-of-life issues are a reality. The doctor addresses the concerns and feelings many of us may have when considering euthanasia.
Dr. Crocker and Dr. Lydia Sullivan-Weber have actually assisted our family with the recent loss of two of our beloved pets.
The Good Death
Pets come into our lives and quickly become much more than furry companions. As their life intertwines with ours, they become a faithful friend, a confidant, a patient pal. The bond between people and pets is powerful. The impact they have on us can be felt for a lifetime. The harsh reality of this bond is that we will outlive our beloved furry family members.
Pets give us unconditional love and put their whole trust in our ability to love and care for them. We want to do our best to uphold this trust by what we feed them, how we exercise them, and the medical care we offer. For our furry family members, this trust extends beyond day to day care. Making the decision to say goodbye when the time is right is a way of doing our best for them.
Losing a pet is never easy but making the final decision for them can be filled with apprehension and heartache. Many pet parents express that they feel as though they are letting their pet down or failing them in some way. Some feel that they are betraying them or giving up on them. While all of these emotions are valid, the truth is quite the opposite.
Euthanasia means “good death” in Greek. While the disease or process of aging is shortening our pet’s life, what we are able to do is to shorten their death. Death is inevitable and unfortunately a natural death is not usually pleasant for any involved. Choosing euthanasia is perhaps the most meaningful decision that can be made for a furry family member. It is a mercy unique to our furry loved ones when their quality of life is no longer there.
People often wonder if they are choosing to say goodbye at the right time. In my experience, I have heard many pet parents express that they felt they waited too long with previous pets. What I never hear, however, is that someone felt they said goodbye too early. Avoiding suffering is the goal and sometimes that means choosing to say goodbye before our hearts are ready to let go. It is a very selfless decision that takes incredible courage. When you make the choice, know that you are not letting them down or betraying them, but are instead giving them the kind and selfless gift of a peaceful goodbye.
If you are struggling with the decision to say goodbye, Dr. Weber with EverLoved Veterinary can offer guidance via phone consult. If you have come to the heart wrenching decision to say goodbye, we would be honored to help you through this difficult time. We offer end-of-life services in the comfort of your home or at our Goodbye Center. Cremation and memorialization services are also available. Our operating hours are Tuesday-Friday 9 am – 6 pm and Saturday 10 am – 2 pm. Please visit our website or contact us at 251-229-1043.
Dr Kristin Crocker at Everloved Veterinary
Losing a pet is one of life’s hardest experiences. The Furry Godmother wants to thank Dr. Crocker for helping us navigate this subject and offering her insights. The compassionate vets with Everloved Veterinary are available for a consultation if you have questions or want guidance. https://everlovedveterinary.com
As always, thank you for being part of The Furry Godmother family!
