When it is Time to Say Goodbye?

As you well know, pets become such a part of our lives that they are loved like a member of our families. It does not really matter what kind of a pet you have be it a dog, cat, bird, gerbil or just about anything else. They have a way of getting under our skin and into our hearts. Many of you have probably experienced the loss of one of your friends.

It is never easy. In fact, finding that one of your animals has passed seems to be one of the easiest ways. It is over and you had no choice. You are able to say your goodbyes and lay them to rest.

But, what about that family pet that is failing from old age? Just how long must we watch and how long do we make them hold on? What we must ask ourselves is, "am I holding on for my own sake, is my animal suffering, would my pet be better off without the laboring, am I waiting for them or for me?"

Today we have the ability to let them go in a peaceful, non-painful, humane way. Now, it does not make it any easier to let them go, in fact you may have to accept pain and regret like you never had to before. When your heart tells you it is time then it is. Whether it is good for you or not. One of the kindest and most loving decisions you can make for your old friend is to let them go without suffering. Letting your loved one go with dignity is the best thing for you both.

When you find an animal to love and to call your own you should understand that you will most likely survive them. An animal is not blessed with the longevity that we are and their time is already written in stone. They grow old at a very rapid rate and can turn from healthy to ill at an alarming pace. Watch your friend. If they are laboring just to be with you (and,they certainly will as they love you unconditionally) then it might be the time to say goodbye.

Euthanasia is a kind and peaceful and dignified way to say that goodbye. You are able to be with them and comfort them and say your farewells as they slowly drift off to sleep. This advice is not meant to be used as a way to rid yourself of a burden by any means. More than anything this advice is to help you when you know it is time for your pet. Knowing that you have done all that you could and given the love and care your pet deserved is the solace you should take to heart. Be with them till the end. Help them to drift off. Then hold them in your arms and tell them all that you need to say.