Preparing to say goodbye to your pet: What you need to know
- Pet Waggin' Pet Care
- May 27
- 3 min read

There’s no easy way to say goodbye to a beloved pet.
They’re not just animals but members of our families, and we know how hard it is to lose them.
When you sign up for the joy of becoming a pet parent, you’re likely not thinking about their death. But unfortunately, that is the reality of pet ownership.
If you’re considering euthanizing your pet due to illness or injury, it’s a heartbreaking decision, to say the least — but it can also be an act of deep love. Choosing to let them go peacefully is a way to prevent unnecessary pain and offer a final gift of comfort.
We’ve put together a short guide to help you prepare emotionally (and practically) for saying goodbye.
Recognizing when it’s time
One of the most difficult parts of pet ownership is knowing when it’s time to let go. There may not be a single clear moment, but rather a gradual decline. The American Humane Society has put together a list of signs it may be time to euthanize your pet.
Many experts recommend considering euthanasia when a pet’s good days outnumber the bad. Consult your veterinarian to help assess your pet’s quality of life. They may use or provide you with quality-of-life scales to guide your decision.

Preparing emotionally
Your grief will likely begin before the actual goodbye. You may also feel guilt, sadness, anger or doubt — and all of these emotions are completely normal and valid.
Even though your focus is on your beloved pet, you need to take care of yourself emotionally, too. Talk it through with a friend, family member, therapist or support group. Do what you need to do to prepare, like taking lots of photos and remembering the happier moments.
And most importantly, give yourself grace!
Making the appointment
Picking up the phone or sending the email to schedule the appointment is hard. All of us on the Pet Waggin’ team are sending you the biggest virtual hugs!
You can ask your vet about euthanasia in the clinic or opt for an in-home service, which allows your pet to pass in a familiar, comfortable environment. When making your decision, consider whether your pet will be more stressed at home or in the vet’s office.
Also, think of who will be present. Are you attending alone? With a partner or family member(s)? Will your children be there?
Understanding the process
Understanding the euthanasia process can ease some anxiety prior to your appointment.
While each clinic or service may vary slightly, here’s what typically happens:
Sedation: Your pet is first given a sedative to relax them and ease any discomfort.
Euthanasia injection: A second injection causes the heart to stop painlessly, quickly and peacefully.
Confirmation. The vet will check vital signs and perform various tests to confirm your pet has passed.
You can hold your pet, talk to them or simply be there beside them. It’s OK to cry or to be quiet. There is no “right way” to say goodbye.
PetMD outlines the euthanasia process in more detail.

Planning aftercare
Just like when you say goodbye to a (human) family member, you have aftercare options once your pet has passed, including burial or cremation.
If you choose cremation, you’ll often have the choice between a private or communal cremation. Many veterinary clinics partner with cremation services and can help coordinate everything for you.
Typically, you can pick from a variety of urn sizes and designs. Other types of memorial options for your pet’s remains include paw prints or fur clippings.
Thinking about these decisions in advance can help reduce stress on the day of the euthanasia when your emotions may be high.
Coping with grief
Grief looks different for everyone. There’s no timeline and no one way to heal. Take the time you need to rest and process.
If you’re struggling, consider joining pet loss support groups to connect with others who understand the pain and emotions involved with losing a furry loved one. Write down your favorite memories of your pet or make a photo album with key moments so you can reminisce about all of the amazing times you shared together.
Pets can also grieve. If possible, let them say goodbye after euthanasia. They may sniff or lie beside their companion. Afterward, keep routines consistent and offer extra love and comfort.
The American Veterinary Medical Association has put together a helpful guide on coping with the loss of a pet.

Euthanasia is never an easy choice, but it can be a profoundly loving one. Letting your pet go with dignity is one of the hardest and bravest things you can do as a pet parent. As you prepare to say goodbye, find comfort in knowing that you gave your pet a lifetime of love.
We’re here for you.