End of Life

Bereavement - The Loss of a Pet

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.

So 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.

So everyone should view the loss of a pet as a serious matter. 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.

Bereavement Services

The staff at VSH understands that the death of a beloved pet can be 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 honor and preserve memories of their animal companions. The Circle of Life Crematorium, in Hemet, have several aftercare programs, including individual cremation and scattering ashes at sea. Ashes are placed in a cedar chest. For more information on their affordable services, please contact Circle of Life Pet Crematorium (800) 791-0906  or visit their website www.circleoflifepet.com.

San Diego Pet Memorial Park is a living memorial. They offer cremation, personalized burial services, memorials and viewings, pet loss books and literature, and pet loss support group counseling. For more information please contact San Diego Pet Memorial Park (858) 909-0009 or visit their website www.sandiegopetmemorialpark.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 infirmity.

The decision to "put to sleep" a pet can be the hardest decision any owner will make. When faced with this prospect, the owner will want to weigh a number of things. Of course, the staff at VSH will help you clarify your choices and make sure you are fully informed about all aspects of this decision. We'll provide a comfortable, unpressured environment in which you can make this choice. If you make the decision to euthanize, we will ensure a respectful compassionate process that allows a pet to pass on with dignity and a minimum of suffering.