Pets are family members, and deciding when to decide on humane euthanasia for your pet is one of the toughest decisions you will ever need to make. If you find yourself going through this decision-making process, know that our team at Arrowhead Animal Hospital is here to support you through this difficult time. If you are considering end of life services or pet euthanasia, please schedule a visit with a veterinarian to help you evaluate your pet’s quality of life. The veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s physical and mental state and make a suggestion based on their findings.
Please know that you may take as much time as you need to think things over. We are here to answer any questions you may have and make the process as easy as possible for you.
End of Life Care and Grief Counseling
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. Our team is sympathetic to what you and your family are going through. Though we may not have experienced your unique situation, we have all had to say goodbye to a beloved pet at some point. Please let us know if you have any questions, concerns, or requested accommodations during this time. If needed, we can schedule a home visit to help with the difficult transition. Please call our facility during regular business hours to schedule a home visit in the Westminster, CO area. We also have many resources available, such as handouts, books, and support group information to help you and your family navigate through this time.
The following list of resources may be helpful:
Books (available for checkout at our hospital):
- “A Special Place for Charlie” by Debby Morehead
- “When Your Pet Dies – How to Cope with your Feelings” by Jamie Quackenbush, M.S.W. & Denise Graveline
- “A Final Act of Caring – Ending the Life of an Animal Friend” by Mary & Herb Montgomery
Handouts (available at our hospital):
- “Grieving The Loss Of Your Beloved Pet” by Meg Maly, M.S.W.
- “Helping Children Deal With The Loss Of A Pet
Other Resources:
- The Pet Loss Support Group (303) 318-0447
The Human Animal Bond Trust (HABT) is a non-profit organization with the mission to service those anticipating losing, or have lost, a beloved pet. The loss of a pet may be one of the most devastating experiences you will ever have to go through and can be as traumatic as losing a family member or dear friend. HABT provides the help of professional grief counselors through the Denver Pet Loss Support Group to those in need.
The Pet Loss Support Group meets every Thursday evening from 6:30pm to 8:00pm in the second-floor board room of the Denver Area Veterinary Medical Society Office located at the 191 Yuma Street, NE entrance to Colorado Veterinary Medical Foundation-Harrison Center for Animals (CVMF-HCA). There is no cost to attend and no need to call beforehand. Please bring a picture of your pet if possible.
