How to Say Goodbye to Your Dog Before Euthanasia

When euthanasia is the most humane option for your furry friend, saying goodbye is one of the hardest things you will ever have to do. You struggle with knowing how to say goodbye to your dog before euthanasia.  You may feel unsure of how to show them love and comfort in their last hours. 

Here, we guide you on how to make your dog’s final days meaningful and how to find closure through peaceful passing. Drawing from years of experience helping families through this transition, we offer advice for celebrating your dog’s life before saying that final goodbye.

How to Say Goodbye to Your Dog Before Euthanasia

The way to overcome this overwhelming process is to make the most of the time you have left with your dog, preparing them for their last visit to the veterinarian without rushing, solving every detail, and finally, accompanying them to say your final goodbye, caressing them gently, while they pass away peacefully. Man kissing his dog while sitting on a couch

Making the Most of Your Remaining Time

There are many thoughtful ways to honor your bond during this transition and in the days leading up to your euthanasia appointment.

  • Prepare for your pet’s euthanasia by spending as much quality time with your dog as possible. Shower them with affection through petting, brushing, massaging, or just sitting near them. 
  • Take pictures and videos to capture memories. 
  • Go for gentle walks or drives if they are able. 
  • Offer favorite treats and food, and give them safe, unique toys that bring them comfort. The goal is to make them feel happy, settled, and cared for.
  • Create memorial items or keepsakes, like imprints of their paw print.
  • Compile a memory book with photos spanning your dog’s life. These mementos will be treasured. 
  • Gathering their collar, leash, bowls, and toys to keep can provide solace.

Let your dog enjoy simple pleasures as long as they are not in significant pain or distress. Saying goodbye is eased when you know they lived their last days feeling safe, comfortable, and loved because of the care you provided.

Preparing for the Final Vet Visit

The euthanasia appointment itself, while sad beyond words, can also impart a sense of closure when handled with care and intention. Here is how to prepare:

  • Schedule the euthanasia in advance so you are not rushed. Ask our vet, at Paws into Grace, any logistical questions. Discuss any questions you may have about the procedure. 
  • Consider allowing family and close friends to say goodbye, especially if they were also close to your dog. However, limit visitors to avoid overwhelming your pet.
  • Bring comforting items to your dog, like their bed or blanket. Familiar smells and textures soothe them and help them feel comfortable. 
  • Feed your dog their favorite meal the day before the appointment. 
  • Give your dog a bath or grooming so they are freshly cleaned.
  • If having a home euthanasia, prepare the space with soft bedding, calming music, and any  items you want present. 

White shih Tzu sitting on a blue arm chair

These steps allow you to consider your dog’s complete care right through their last moments. This is the final act of love you can provide.

Saying Those Last Goodbyes

When the difficult time comes to say that final goodbye, there are ways to memorialize your dog and gain closure.

  • Take time with our vet, at Paws into Grace, to sign any consent forms, discuss aftercare options, and voice any concerns. Do not feel rushed.
  • Show your dog soothing affection as the sedative takes effect. Talk gently and reassuringly.
  • Reminisce out loud about your favorite memories and the special bond you shared. This brings you both comfort.
  • Let your pain show through tears. Your dog knows how much you love them. There is no need to hide emotions. Our vets are there to help you and will not judge you in any way. 
  • Stay with your dog, gently stroking them, as they peacefully pass. Witnessing their release from suffering can impart closure.
  • Collect a paw print impression our vet makes after passing as a remembrance.

Express your grief openly and fully at this moment. Finding acceptance takes time. 

How to Cope in the Days After

In the raw days after the euthanasia appointment, give yourself patience and permission to fully grieve. Understand that the pain may come in waves, triggered by daily routines that are now missing your companion. Here are constructive ways to process your grief:

  • Create a memorial space featuring your dog’s photo, collar, or paw print locket necklaces.
  • Plant a tree in your dog’s memory. The living reminder can be healing.
  • Write about your feelings, favorite memories, or a letter to your dog expressing what they meant to you.
  • Have a ceremony with your family to celebrate your dog’s life. Share stories and toast their legacy.
  • Donate to an animal charity in your dog’s honor. This supports other pets in need.
  • Post tribute photos and videos of your dog online. Read heartwarming comments from others.

A couple spending time with their dog before putting it to sleepThe loss of your faithful companion leaves an irreparable hole. Take things one day at a time. With patience and support, your broken heart will mend. If you wish to talk to a grief counselor, Paws into Grace offers grief support services for pet owners and family members.

Related Questions

Why Do I Feel So Guilty for Putting My Dog to Sleep?

Feeling guilty after euthanizing your dog is common and stems from the love and responsibility you have for them. Remember that you decided out of compassion, and focus on the love and care you provided during their life. Be patient with yourself as you navigate through the grieving process. 

Did My Dog Know He Was Being Put to Sleep?

While it is impossible to know exactly what a dog understands, it is unlikely that it fully comprehends the concept of euthanasia. However, dogs are highly perceptive and can sense changes in their environment and the emotions of their owners. They may pick up on cues that something is different. 

Do Dogs Know They Are Loved?

Yes, dogs can sense and recognize love. Through their keen observation and the bond they develop with their owners, dogs can perceive and respond to affection, care, and compassion, understanding that they are loved. 

Conclusion

Saying goodbye to your dog before euthanasia is one of the most challenging experiences a pet owner can face. Yet showing your dog love and kindness in their last moments provides comfort. Honor their memory by living fully. Your beloved friend will forever be by your side.

Dr. Benson started Paws into Grace in 2007. She wanted to give pets and their parents a beautiful last encounter that didn't have to be in an unfamiliar office where pets were often frightened. The empathy she shows each family creates a lasting impression on them. In her free time, Dr. Benson enjoys running and spending time with her family, dogs, cats, and chickens.

  

Testimonials

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who... read more

Renee C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him... read more

Diane C.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but... read more

Terry A.

Renee C.

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who came out to the house. She was so understanding and supportive. They were all so helpful, understanding and nice. My girl got to stay at home and say goodbye in the backyard (a hummingbird flew over and it seemed like a good sign too). So glad I didn't have to take her to a cold vet office.

Diane C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him with more medications which would make him even more miserable. I called and spoke to a very kind lady who was patient as I cried through making an appointment. We made an appointment for 1:30pm. Dr. Toni arrived. She was very kind, explained everything to us and gave us the time to be with our boy after the first shot. He wasn't relaxing enough so she gave him a second shot. We stayed with him throughout the entire process and I carried him to her car in the end. It was a very difficult decision but knowing that our boy is not in pain, gives us some peace. We are thankful to Dr. Toni for her kindness and compassion. They will arrange the cremation for us. Since we are in a pandemic, we had our masks on and said goodbye to our boy in our garden.

Terry A.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but before she attached the IV. We were relieved that we made the decision to let her go to doggy heaven at home. It was a tranquil and serene passing for her, and it very much aids us in the grieving and healing process knowing that she passed away so peacefully. Based on the grace and compassion Dr. Brown demonstrated on one of the most awful days of our lives we would not hesitate to recommend Paws Into Grace for others facing this very painful time.
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