What to do if your dog dies at home?
Your dog is your best friend, so when the time comes and they pass away, this can be devastating. You have lost a family member and your most faithful companion. However, this can be even more difficult if your dog passes away at home, especially in unexpected circumstances. Here, we will take a look at what you should do if your dog dies at home, and explain how we can help you during this hard time.
When dogs pass away at home
If you know that your dog has reached the end of their life, you will often take them to their veterinarian to be put gently to sleep. In this case, the vet in question will often offer to handle your dog’s remains, but you can still choose your own crematorium if you wish. If your dog passes away at home, this will be left up to you. If you have been aware of your pet’s health failing, or if they were elderly, you may be equipped to handle such a situation. Planning ahead can help to ease the process along – but this is not always possible.
What happens at the end of life?
After your dog initially passes, you may feel a range of conflicting emotions. Some people wish to hold their dogs for a while or be near them. On the other hand, if you cannot handle your dog and find it too upsetting to be nearby, you can call for an immediate collection. The speed of this will depend on the crematorium you have chosen.
While this is upsetting to think about, be aware that your dog may still display some signs of movement such as twitching or releasing gas. This is completely normal and natural but can be deeply distressing, especially if you are not prepared for this to occur.
Your choices afterwards
Whether your pet has died unexpectedly or not, you can choose between a cremation or a burial. Cremation is increasingly chosen by pet owners, and an individual cremation will ensure that the remains of your dog belong to your dog alone. You can then take the ashes home to keep with you, or to scatter in a beloved spot. The choice is yours, and discussing it ahead of time or after the passing is extremely important.
Collecting your dog
Once you have contacted the crematorium, you have the option of taking your dog there yourself or having your dog collected. You can call the crematorium as soon as you are able and you can let them know when you would like to take your dog or have them collected. It is important to note that you should not keep your dog with you for more than twenty-four hours after they pass, laid on protective material. For the time that they are in your home, try to keep them in a cool area, and give yourself time to say goodbye however you need to.
Don’t worry about appearing distraught or grieving in front of the staff at the crematorium – they understand how distressing this time is, and will endeavour to treat both you and your dog with the respect and care you deserve.
Let yourself grieve
While not everyone understands the grief you may feel after losing a dog, rest assured that these feelings are natural and be expected. Your home may feel empty and you might find yourself deeply upset – make sure that you reach out to loved ones and pet loss support organisations where you can connect with people going through similar grief. Most importantly, allow yourself the time and space to grieve at your own pace.
Losing a dog is always difficult, and having them pass away at home can be extremely challenging. If you would like to discuss this further in advance, or if you need us to help you during this upsetting time, get in touch with Procare Pet Cremations to find out how we can best support you.
Contact Paw to Paw Pet Cremation
For more information about our Pet Cremation Services, contact us today by calling (972) 482-5588 or click here.