Losing a beloved dog or cat is one of the most painful experiences a family can go through. When a pet passes away naturally at home, the shock and grief can make it difficult to figure out what practical steps to take next.
If you are reading this because you have just lost your pet, we are so incredibly sorry. Take a deep breath. You do not need to rush. Give yourself and your family the time you need to sit with your pet, say your goodbyes, and process the immediate grief.
When you feel ready, here are the practical steps you should take to ensure your pet is handled safely and respectfully.
1. Confirm Your Pet Has Passed
Sometimes pets fall into a very deep, unresponsive sleep. Gently check for the following signs:
- Place two fingers firmly against the inside of their hind leg to check for a pulse.
- Watch their chest closely for a full minute to see if there is any shallow breathing.
- Gently touch their eye to see if there is a blink reflex.
If there is no pulse or breathing, your pet has passed.
2. Keep the Body Cool
It is important to keep your pet's body as cool as possible until an aftercare service or veterinarian can assist you.
- Turn down the temperature: If you are inside, lower your air conditioning as much as you comfortably can, or open windows if it is cold outside.
- Wrap them gently: Place your pet on a blanket or towel. You may notice some fluids releasing from their body. This is completely natural. You can place a plastic bag underneath the blanket to protect your floors or furniture.
- Reposition them: Gently fold their legs closer to their body. This makes it easier to wrap them in a blanket later. If rigor mortis sets in (usually within a few hours), it will be very difficult to move their limbs.
3. Decide on Aftercare Or Call for Pickup
You will need to decide what kind of aftercare you want for your pet. The most common options are private cremation, communal cremation, or home burial. Please remember to check your local city ordinances regarding home burial, as many municipalities do not allow it.
If you are unsure or just want someone to safely and respectfully remove your pet from your home, you can call a 24/7 pet pickup service.
At PetPickupNow, our automated dispatch line is available day or night. You do not have to wait until Monday morning or until your regular vet opens. You can call us, and we will send a compassionate driver to securely transport your pet to a local cremation facility or veterinary clinic of your choosing.
4. Take Your Time
There is no clock counting down. If your children need an hour to sit and talk to their dog, let them. If you need to rest before making a phone call, rest. As long as the room is cool, you have several hours before you need to move them.
Losing a pet is losing a family member. Treat yourself with grace and take the help that is offered safely to you.
