Knowing when an animal would benefit the most from a humane euthanasia is never easy. Our doctors are here to help answer the question
IS IT TIME?
An appointment allows the doctor to see the mental and physical state your pet is in to make the suggestion accurately. Do understand that you are not forced to make any decisions on the spot. For many of us, we need time to think things over, and that’s okay.
End-of-Life Care and Grief Counseling
Death of a beloved pet is never easy, whether it happens from natural causes or by euthanasia.
Our staff is very sympathetic to what you and your family are going through – each of us has lost a pet over the years, and while we may not have had to experience your unique situation, we have all had to grieve over our own companions. If needed we can schedule a home visit to help with this difficult transition. Please call during normal business hours to schedule your home visit. We have handouts, books, and support group information available to help you and your family navigate this trying time.
The following list of resources may be helpful:
Books (available for checkout at our hospital):
- “A Special Place For Charlee” Debby Morehead
- “When Your Pet Dies – How to Cope With Your Feelings” Jamie Quackenbush, M.S.W. & Denise Graveline
- “A Final Act of Caring – Ending the Life of an Animal Friend” 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 which exists to serve those who are anticipating, or have lost, an animal companion. That loss may be one of the most devastating and painful experiences you will ever face. Such a loss can be as traumatic as losing a family member or a dear friend. To meet the needs of those faced with animal loss, HABT provides the help of professional grief counselors through the Denver Pet Loss Support Group.
The Pet Loss Support Group meets every Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the second floor board room of the Denver Area Veterinary Medical Society Office at 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 before attending; please bring a picture of your pet if possible.
- The Human Animal Bond Trust (HABT) is a non-profit organization which exists to serve those who are anticipating, or have lost, an animal companion. That loss may be one of the most devastating and painful experiences you will ever face. Such a loss can be as traumatic as losing a family member or a dear friend. To meet the needs of those faced with animal loss, HABT provides the help of professional grief counselors through the Denver Pet Loss Support Group.
