At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital, we understand that deciding to say goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult and deeply personal choices you’ll ever make. Pets are our companions, our daily constants, and members of the family. When their comfort and dignity begin to slip away, choosing humane euthanasia can be a final, selfless act of love — but it’s natural to feel uncertain, guilty, or overwhelmed.
Our medical team is available to support you and your family with both emotional and practical guidance — from talking through quality-of-life questions and logistics to being present on the day and offering follow-up grief support.
Understanding the Decision – When is it the Right time to Say Goodbye to a Pet?
The right time to say goodbye often isn’t marked by a single moment, but by a series of small changes that accumulate over time. It can help to step back and ask:
- Is my pet still finding joy in their usual activities?
- Are their good days still outnumbering the bad?
- Can their pain or discomfort be managed in a way that keeps them content?
You don’t have to answer these questions alone. Talk with your veterinary team about your pet’s quality of life, what medical or comfort options are available, and what to expect if you decide to proceed. Using structured tools — such as a Quality-of-Life checklist or calendar — can make these discussions clearer and help you feel more confident in your decision.
For a deeper look at how to assess comfort, joy, and daily wellbeing, see our blog, Quality of Life: A Helpful Framework for Pet-Centered Decisions, which includes tools and resources you can use at home.
Taking time to reflect on your pet’s personality and values also matters. For example, an energetic retriever who lived for long walks might find loss of mobility harder than a senior cat who enjoys quiet time by your side. There is no universal definition of “ready” — there is only what feels right for you and your companion.
Preparing for Euthanasia of a Pet
Once you’ve made the decision, your veterinary team will walk you through what to expect and what options are available. You can choose whether to say goodbye in-hospital or, if you prefer a home setting, we can connect you with trusted providers who offer in-home euthanasia services.
Our team will guide you through what to expect, explain your options, and help you plan the details that will make the experience peaceful for both you and your pet.
Think about what would make that time meaningful and calm:
- Setting: A quiet room at the hospital, or if you prefer a home setting, we can connect you with trusted providers who offer in-home euthanasia services.
- Comfort items: A favorite blanket, toy, or bed.
- Company: Decide who should be present.
- Memories: Consider a paw print, a fur clipping, or a few photos as keepsakes. Our hospital refers our clients to Radiant Heart, a local pet funeral home that can provide many options for remembering your furry family member.
Your veterinary team will explain each step, from the sedation that helps your pet relax to the final injection that brings peaceful rest. Many people find it reassuring to know that their pet feels no pain — only calm and comfort, surrounded by love.
It’s also okay if you’re not sure how you’ll feel in the moment. Some people want to be present throughout; others choose to say goodbye beforehand. Both are valid, and both come from love.
Additional reading:
Navigating Grief After Goodbye
The days and weeks after saying goodbye can feel hollow. You might replay decisions in your mind or question whether you did enough. These feelings are part of grief — not a sign that you made the wrong choice.
Grief after pet loss is real, and it deserves understanding and space. Some people may not fully grasp how deeply we love our pets — but your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone.
You may notice moments of sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief if your pet had been struggling. All of these are normal. There’s no set timeline for healing, and it’s okay if your emotions change from day to day.
Ways to care for yourself:
- Acknowledge your grief. Allow yourself to cry, talk, or be quiet — whatever feels right.
- Remember your pet meaningfully. A memory box, planting a tree, or writing a letter can help.
- Stay connected. Talk with friends, family, or others who understand.
- Be gentle with yourself. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting — it means learning to carry the love in a new way.
Some people find comfort in a small daily ritual, such as lighting a candle or sharing a story about their pet. Over time, the sharpness of loss can soften, making more space for gratitude for the years you shared.
For a short reflection that validates why pet loss can feel so profound, see our companion piece, “Just a Dog”.
You Are Not Alone
Saying goodbye is an act of love, but it can also leave an ache that takes time to heal. At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital, we’re here to help you prepare, make informed choices, and find support afterward — because every pet’s story, and every bond, deserves care even in goodbye.
Love and loss are intertwined — and every moment you gave your pet a good life was, in itself, the greatest gift.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing for Pet Euthanasia & Grief
How do I know when it’s the right time to say goodbye to my pet?
The right time is often identified by a series of small changes rather than one single moment. Consider whether your pet still enjoys their usual activities, whether their good days outnumber the bad, and whether their pain can be managed in a way that keeps them content. Your veterinary team can help guide you through these questions.
Can my veterinary team help me assess my pet’s quality of life?
Yes. Your veterinary team can discuss your pet’s comfort, medical options, and what to expect if you decide to proceed with euthanasia. Structured tools such as a Quality-of-Life checklist or calendar can also help clarify your pet’s daily wellbeing.
What should I consider when preparing for euthanasia?
It can help to think about the setting, any comfort items you want to bring, who should be present, and what keepsakes you may want. Your veterinary team will explain each step of the process, from sedation to the final injection, and help make the experience peaceful for your pet.
Can euthanasia be done at home?
While the hospital provides in-clinic euthanasia, they can connect you with trusted providers who offer in-home services if you prefer a home setting.
Will my pet feel pain during euthanasia?
No. Pets are given sedation to help them relax, and the final injection brings peaceful rest. Many people find comfort in knowing their pet experiences only calm and love during this time.
What keepsakes can I request after my pet passes?
Some families choose keepsakes such as a paw print, a fur clipping, or photos. The hospital refers clients to Radiant Heart, a local pet funeral home that offers additional memorial options.
Is it normal to feel guilt or uncertainty about my decision?
Yes. Feelings of uncertainty, guilt, and overwhelm are natural when facing end-of-life decisions. These emotions reflect the deep bond you share with your pet and do not mean you’ve made the wrong choice.
What emotions are normal after saying goodbye to a pet?
People may experience sadness, anger, guilt, or even relief if their pet had been struggling. All of these emotions are considered normal parts of grief, and there is no set timeline for healing.
How can I take care of myself while grieving a pet?
Acknowledge your grief, find meaningful ways to remember your pet, stay connected with others, and be gentle with yourself. Simple rituals — such as lighting a candle or sharing memories — can provide comfort.
Is pet grief valid?
Yes. Grief after losing a pet is real and deserves understanding. Even if others don’t fully understand the depth of your bond, your feelings are valid and you are not alone.
Where can I find additional resources about saying goodbye to a pet?
The original text references supportive resources such as “When It’s Time to Say Goodbye” and “Honoring the Bond – End-of-Life Decisions,” as well as the companion reflection “Just a Dog” in the blog above.
