Veterinary Professionals - Vet Pro - Coping with loss of a pet.

jenvetnurse writes "All of us know the pain experienced when losing a pet. It is not just a ‘pet’ it’s a family member. It is difficult for anyone no matter what the circumstances were.
These books may help come to terms with the feelings experienced:

‘Goodbye, Dear Friend’ by Virginia Ironside, published by Robson at £6.99
‘Death of an Animal Friend’ Available from The Blue Cross at £2.50
‘Absent Friend’ by M. Lee, published by Henston at £4.50

As vets and vet nurses we all have been in situations where it is difficult to know what to say to a distraught owner without sounding patronising.

Home euthanasia’s are by far easier for the owners and less stressful for the animal. Talking to the owners before the time comes can be useful if possible – to decide on the particulars. It is hard to make decisions when you are upset and many owners change their mind after the event. For example some wish they had been alone to say goodbye to their pet, some want a lock of hair. We are all different and we should try to be perceptive and get everything right for the owner and animal. I personally believe saying goodbye is essential in coming to terms with the death. Having a home burial I feel is nicer – if at all possible – if owners do not have a garden maybe they have a son/daughter who does. At least you always know where the pet lies and can place flowers on the grave. Crematoriums are practical but personally I cannot see the point in having ashes back – can you totally trust pet crematoriums? This is just my personal opinion but I have seen certain companies throw bodies into the collection vans – which is shocking.
There is even a company who makes jewellery out of the pets ashes would you believe! It costs around £2,000! The ashes are incorporated into a gemstone see: www.lifegem4pets.co.uk
The Blue Cross have a very good bereavement service go to: http://www.thewebsite.com
There are some good courses on bereavement counselling: http://www.thewebsite.com

Has anyone found these courses beneficial? What are your views on this sad subject? Please share your experiences/thoughts with us in the forums.
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