Alleviating animal suffering is one of the golden rules of animal welfare. The older an animal gets, the more ailments usually accumulate. From deafness, incontinence and dementia to weight loss, joint pain and tumors: there are many diseases that increase with age. It is often very difficult to estimate when the medical prolongation of life will also be accompanied by a prolongation of pain and the loss of any quality of life for the beloved animal. “Vets can give a lot of help here. They can usually realistically assess whether the animal is in constant pain, whether there is still a chance it will get better, and whether there are medications available to alleviate the suffering,» says Sarah Ross. “If you are unsure, you should definitely consult a veterinary practice. There may come a time when any further treatment will only prolong the animal’s life without improving its quality of life.”
Good preparation can help to let the animal go with dignity. “It is helpful to consider what such a farewell might look like before an animal grows old or becomes ill – even if the mere thought of it hurts. This also includes considering whether you want to have the animal redeemed at home or in a practice if the worst comes to the worst, and whether you want to cremate the animal, bury it or leave it in the veterinary practice. It can help to talk about it with friends or family,» Ross said. It is also important to find out about the legal requirements for the burial of pets.
«Depending on the health of the animal, it can be nice to go back to your favorite places or to play with your favorite toy. Perhaps you would also like to make yourself comfortable at home together. All dog and cat owners know best what makes their pet happy and calms them down. In any case, the most important thing is not to leave the animal alone in a dying situation and to stand by it as best you can,” says the pet expert.
Losing a loved one in your family leaves a huge void. There is no right or wrong in dealing with it. “All the feelings that pet owners have are legitimate and should be accepted. You can allow yourself to grieve. If you had to make the painful decision to put your pet to sleep, it’s important to keep reminding yourself that you did your best for the dog or cat and that their suffering is now over,» says Heimtier -expert. “The decision as to whether and when a new animal moves in should be made carefully and you should take enough time for it. Perhaps an abandoned animal absolutely needs the company of another animal of the same species? Once you have decided on a new pet, it is worth visiting the animal shelter, where many dogs, cats and other animals are waiting for a second chance.”