Laying a furry friend to rest

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is a difficult decision that all pet owners eventually have to face.

It can be an emotional and overwhelming time, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Many pet owners struggle with knowing when it’s the right time to say goodbye to their furry friends and other pets.
If your pet is in constant pain or suffering, it may be time to consider euthanasia.

Chronic pain can be difficult to manage, and it may severely impact your pet’s quality of life. Your veterinarian can help you determine if a pet’s pain is manageable, or if it’s time to consider having it put to sleep.

According to dog lover Tina Harding, an experienced vet nurse, and active organiser/participant of many canine groups, making such decisions may cause feelings of guilt and worry about doing it too soon, or possibly too late.
She says you can ease the burden by considering your pet’s quality of life. If your pet is no longer able to do the things they once enjoyed, or if they are no longer interested in food, toys, or interacting with people, it may be a sign that their quality of life has diminished.

Tina says to ask yourself questions such as: can they stand and move around, are they eating, or do they cry in pain? It’s also essential to consider the treatment options available for your pet’s condition. If these are invasive or risky, and there is no guarantee of success, it may be best to consider a more final option, she says.

“Your veterinarian can provide guidance on the available treatment options and the likelihood of success.”
Tina says it is okay to feel overwhelmed with emotions during this difficult time, but the pet’s need should come first.

“Ultimately, you know your pet best, and it’s important to do what’s best for them, even if it is a hard decision. Celebrate the time you spent together, and remember the love and joy they brought into your life.”

PET STATISTICS IN NZ

Estimates are that New Zealanders collectively own 4.6 million pets.
This includes 44 percent of Kiwi homes having 1.1 million cats between them, and 28 percent of homes having 700,000 dogs between them.

AVERAGE PET LIFESPANS

Dogs – 10 to 14 years
Cats – 12 to 17 years
Rabbits – 8 to 12 years
Mice – 3 years
Goats – 15 years
Turtles – 20 to 30 years
Horses – 25 to 30 years