IT’S SO HARD TO SAY GOODBYE
MEET BRIDGER!
CONSIDERING YOUR PET’S END OF LIFE
We all work hard, and sometimes I need to remind Mom and Dad to take breaks! I like to nudge their elbows with my nose or put my paw on their laps to remind them that it’s time for a walk. Sometimes, I just get tired of working all day and want to go home for
Most of us will outlive our pets. It’s a reality most of us don’t like to think about but will eventually have to face. Aug. 28 is Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day. Whether or not you’ve previously had a pet “cross the rainbow bridge,” euthanasia is a difficult topic for most pet parents. We also understand that it’s one of the most heartbreaking decisions you’ll ever have to make. “Euthanasia is one of the most important services we provide,” Dr. Clark says. That’s because our pets don’t deserve to suffer, and we owe it to them to provide a peaceful passing. Further, it’s a veterinarian’s job to help clients make the right decision for their pet while coping with difficult emotions.
my nighttime lunch!
I’m blind in one eye, so I have trouble with depth perception. That’s why I don’t ride in the truck bed — I might fall out! Mom and Dad tease me sometimes by throwing me food and watching me try to figure out where it’s going. I don’t mind. I just wait until it lands on the ground to pick it up, and I get more snacks. I’ve got to find some way to stay full between my lunches. Mom and Dad say I’m a retriever, but it doesn’t make much sense to me. I like playing keep-away, not fetch! But even though I had knee surgery, I have a good time running around, playing, and making new friends. I may have a few health issues, but Mom and Dad think I’m perfect just the way I am.
“When our clients are falling apart around us, part of being a good veterinarian is being able to separate our emotions,” Dr. Clark says. “If I get super emotional, it makes the clients worse. They’re looking for some stability, and they want to know that even though the decision is really hard, it needs to happen.” The decision to euthanize is deeply personal. So, whenever possible, we try to guide our patients instead of dictating what we think is best. “When pets are reaching the end of their lives, I encourage people to make a list in their heads of points that will indicate they need to make a decision,” Dr. Clark says. “It’s good to do that when it’s not an emergency, and you’re not as emotional.” Dr. Ball has clients keep track on a calendar of good days and bad days to help direct decisions.
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Ingredients
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2 cans tuna, undrained 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin
Dr. Clark notes some crucial considerations, including the pet’s pain level, continence, mobility, and appetite. Lack of appetite is particularly crucial, as not eating is likely to cause a pet more pain. Examining these factors in advance makes the later decision slightly less emotional. We encourage owners to be present with their pets during the euthanasia process. We will ensure the pet is comfortable, explain the entire process, and answer any questions. Once we administer the euthanasia drug, the pet will not experience pain and will pass on in approximately 10–15 seconds. Saying goodbye is the hardest part of having a pet, but it’s our duty as pet parents to give them a responsible and peaceful send-off. If you ever have questions about making this decision, the process, or how to remember your beloved furry friend, our office will always be glad to help.
3 egg yolks
3 tbsp sea meal mineral powder
1/2 cup coconut flour
Directions
1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. In a bowl or food processor, blend all ingredients until they comprise a fine-grained mash. 3. On a parchment-lined baking sheet, place 1/4 heaping teaspoons of mixture, evenly spaced. Press each treat with a finger to make a small disc. 4. Bake for 12 minutes, until treats are golden brown. 5. With a wide spatula, flip treats, and return to oven for another 3–5 minutes, until the second side browns. 6. Cool thoroughly and store in an air-tight container. Treats should last up to 2 weeks in storage or longer if they are frozen.
– Dr. Jevon Clark
406.755.6886
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