The loss of a pet can be a devastating event. We may feel that a pet is a member of the family, and indeed the relationships between people and their pets may be very similar to the bond between a parent and a child – unconditional and unbreakable.
If you experience the loss of a pet, grief and sorrow are natural and expected responses. Grief is a very personal, complicated matter. People respond with an enormous range of emotions and reactions. Some people believe that, while the loss of a pet might be painful, it’s “unhealthy” or an “over-reaction” to be so grief-stricken over an animal, especially if the feelings are prolonged. But this belief is mistaken. The reaction to the loss of a pet can be as devastating as the loss of a relative or friend.
We understand the loss of a pet is an emotional time. Don’t be afraid to seek help or advice. Certainly, feel free to ask your veterinarian or our staff about how better to cope with the loss of a pet, or where to turn for help.
Bereavement Services
The staff at SASH Sunshine Coast understand that the death of a beloved pet can be a sad, even traumatic event. To reduce the trauma and stress of this loss, we provide a quiet, private area for grieving. Staff are also ready to assist you as needed and provide a sympathetic presence.
We know many owners want to honour and preserve memories of their animal companions. There are companies that now offer several aftercare programs, including individual cremation, personalised burial services, memorials and pet loss counselling. If you would like to know more about Bereavement Services that are available please contact us on (07) 5453 7555 or by email on sunshinecoast@sashvets.com
Euthanasia
Euthanasia is the procedure of ending an animal’s life, in a painless way, for humane reasons, typically to end suffering from illness or injury.
The decision to “put to sleep” a pet can be the hardest decision any owner will make. As a pet owner when faced with this prospect, you will want to weigh up a number of things. Of course, the staff at SASH will help you clarify your choices and make sure you are fully informed about all aspects of this decision. We will provide a comfortable, non-pressured environment in which you can make this choice. If you make the decision to euthanise, we will ensure a respectful, compassionate process that allows a pet to pass on with dignity and a minimum of suffering.
Please phone us on (07) 5453 7555 to learn more or to book an appointment.
