What Do I Do When My Dog Dies

A beadwork garden stepping stone pet footprint is a wonderful memorial for your dog.

What do i do when my dog dies. Many dog owners will witness only the early signs of dying and may elect euthanasia. Depending on the position your pet was in when it died you ll want to tuck their front and back legs tight into their body known as positioning rather than leaving the pet outstretched. Obtain a blanket towel or bed sheet that is large enough to wrap around the body. For large dogs place the body on a blanket you won t mind disposing of with a tarp underneath.

If your dog dies at home you will need to make arrangements to deal with the body. Losing a pet is never easy but knowing what to expect when your dog dies may provide some comfort. Many dog owners wonder when it is time for their best friend to pass. When your dog dies you might be comforted by a visible reminder and testament to your dog.

Move your dog s body to the coolest location you can find to give you time to make arrangements. Put your pet s body in a cool location such as on the concrete floor of a basement or garage. You may wish to clean the areas around your dog s mouth genitals and anus if you notice fluid or waste. This usually occurs within 3 to 4 hours after death and can last up to 72 hours.

Upon death bodily fluids are often released. Here s what to do when your dog dies these tips focus on coping with the sadness and loneliness of loss. Pet hospice care also known as palliative care is an option if your pet is suffering from a terminal illness and a cure is not possible. You ll need to decide whether or not you wish to retain control of the body or leave it to the professionals.

Be aware of rigor mortis stiffening of the joints. Wear gloves to prevent bacteria and germs from spreading. After you pup dies the veterinarian might become your best friend for a while. Some dog owners who elect hospice palliative or end of life care under the guidance of a veterinarian will witness the more advanced changes which often take place when death is imminent.

Here are a few tips for handling your dog s body. The goal is to make a pet s final days or weeks more pleasant with the proper use of pain medications dietary strategies and human interaction. During your dog s lifetime the veterinarian is just the person who gives your pup shots and diagnoses infections. Additional bodily fluid and or waste might be released when the body is moved.