Saying goodbye to a pet.

When you are facing a difficult decision, the Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County is here to help. We understand how devastating the loss of a pet can be, and we can extend a warm embrace of support for you in your times of grieving.

In particular, our chapel and memorial garden are available for you, your family, and your loved ones to provide a private refuge in your times of need.

These facilities are offered free of charge.

In addition, should you face the need, we provide private euthanasia services by appointment for a fee or $75.

Making the decision to euthanize?
Here are some questions to ask yourself…

Making the decision to euthanize is often harder than dealing with the loss itself. Many people say they can accept the death and accompanying sadness, but have great difficulty with being the one who must decide when death will occur. Janice, whose 14-year-old dachshund was in steadily declining health, said, “Each night I pray that when I wake up in the morning I’ll find that Buster dies in his sleep. That way I won’t have to make the decision I have been dreading.”

Janice’s admission reflects what many people feel as their animal companions struggle against all odds. As you face the painful decision about euthanizing your pet, let the following questions serve as your guide:

	Is there a reasonable chance for a cure? For comfort?
	How much additional time might treatment give? What will the quality of that time be?
	Do I have the financial and emotional resources to handle long-term medical care if it is required?
	Will I have the necessary physical and emotional stamina? (Getting up at night, preparing special food, giving shots…)
	Is the relationship with my pet changing or decreasing in quality as I anticipate this loss?
	How many of my pet’s usual activities are still possible? Make a list and review it on a regular basis.
	Is my pet suffering even though physical pain is not evident?
	What do I think my pet would want?
	If I were in my pet’s place, what would I want?
	What is my personal bottom line – what am I unable to tolerate and/or live with? Write a contract with yourself, knowing that you can always renegotiate.
	Project yourself ahead in time and ask, “How will I look back and remember this experience?”

When a pet is suffering or has severely diminished quality of life and you decide to euthanize, you are doing what you believe is best for your animal friend. Let that thought remain uppermost in your mind as you face your decision, and again as you look back on the action you took.