This is a complicated and personal decision. Some families choose to be with their pet as they are passing away. Others choose not to witness that part. Whatever choice you make, your pet will get the same loving and tender care from their doctor.
It is important to consider all of the factors when deciding who should be present. Our doctor welcomes families of all sizes and age ranges; however it is important to consider the well-being of the patient as well. Some pets may feel stressed by young children or loud noises or crowds, which can lead to longer times to getting sleepy and possibly even needing additional medications. These pets may do better in a room with 1 or 2 of the closest family members until your doctor tells you your pet is under anesthesia. It is important that families remain as calm and quiet during the process as possible to avoid causing extra fear or stress to your pet.
Other pets are also welcome to witness the euthanasia. Again, it is important to consider if the other pets may excite or stress the patient. It is also important to consider whether the other pet(s) presence will allow you to be mentally and emotionally present in your pet’s final moments. I find it is usually helpful for other household pets to be present during or see the body after a euthanasia. This allows them to understand what happened whereas otherwise they may become confused about where their friend went. Some pets become very stressed “looking” for the housemate after the death; this is much less likely in dogs that were given the opportunity to see the body.
If you plan to have more than 2-3 people present or if you plan to have children or pets present, please let us know. Our veterinarian will gladly talk through a plan to help ensure your pet’s passing is peaceful while still accommodating as much as possible. Our veterinarian can also bring a children’s art therapy kit upon request, which includes a children’s book about euthanasia and several options for arts and crafts to distract or calm children during the appointment. Children can make a heart-shaped wooden ornament to memorialize their pet, write or color in a small journal, or play with stickers and stampers.