Saying Goodbye - We're here for you
CW // Content Warning: Some readers may find the content of this article upsetting.
We all want out pets to live long and happy lives. Unfortunately growing old is part of the journey and we would like to help you ensure that your pet's golden years are as comfortable as they can be. We are always happy to arrange a 'quality of life' discussion to help you decide if it is the right time to say goodbye. If your pet has been having ongoing treatment we may be able to discuss this over the phone. If we have not seen them for a little while we will arrange an appointment so that we can assess their condition. We understand how difficult these conversations are so please do not worry if you can’t discuss the subject without becoming emotional.
If further treatment options are not possible, or would not be in the best interests of your pet, we can arrange a final appointment. We usually try to book these at the start or end of appointment times so that the surgery is at its quietest. In some instances a home visit may be possible. It can be useful to decide ahead of the appointment whether you would like to create a final resting place for your pet in your garden, or let us arrange an individual or communal cremation. If you opt for a communal cremation, your pet's ashes will be scattered over a garden of remembrance. If you choose an individual cremation, the ashes will be returned to you a week or two later in either a small wooden casket or a biodegradable scatter tube.
You are welcome to bring additional family members or friends along to the final appointment.
Saying goodbye to a companion can leave a big space and if you are struggling with difficult emotions following the loss of a pet, the Blue Cross have a Pet Loss Support helpline which may be of comfort.
If you would like to send us a photo and short memory of your pet we would be very honoured to add them to the 'Gone but not Forgotten' section of our website and help their memory live on.