Saying Goodbye: When It's Time and What to Expect

As pet owners, one of the hardest decisions we ever face is knowing when it’s time to say goodbye. Our pets are more than just animals - they're companions, family members, and trusted friends. At Tribe, we know how heartbreaking this moment can be, and we want to support you through every step, including the final one.

Recognising When It’s Time

Every pet and every situation is different, but there are some signs that may help guide the decision:

• Chronic Pain: If your pet is in constant pain that no longer responds to medication or other treatments, it may be time to consider their quality of life.
• Loss of Mobility: Difficulty standing, walking, or moving around can significantly impact your pet’s happiness and daily functioning.
• Lack of Appetite: A sudden or prolonged refusal to eat or drink, especially in conjunction with other symptoms, can signal that the body is beginning to shut down.
• Behaviour Changes: If your pet becomes withdrawn, anxious, confused, or unusually aggressive, it could indicate they are no longer feeling like themselves.
• Incontinence or Inability to Groom: These issues can affect your pet’s dignity and health, and often indicate a decline in well-being.
• Are You Coping? Is it becoming stressful to give your pet medication, or are you feeling overwhelmed by caring for them?
• Are They Coping? If they are having more bad days than good or becoming stressed by medications or tests, they may not be enjoying life any more. Try to put yourself in your pets position - how do you think they would rate their quality of life?

If you're unsure, don't hesitate to contact us. As compassionate, experienced home-visit vets, we can assess your pet in the comfort of your own home and help you make the best decision based on love and dignity.

What to Expect During an End-of-Life Visit

Choosing a home euthanasia allows your pet to pass peacefully in a familiar and comforting environment, surrounded by the people they love.

Here’s what typically happens:

1. A Gentle Arrival: We will arrive quietly and talk with you about your pet’s condition, ensuring you're ready and comfortable with the process.
2. Calming Sedation: The first step is administering a calming sedative. This helps your pet relax and drift into a pain-free, sleep-like state.
3. Pass Away Peacefully: Once your pet is fully sedated, a final injection will be given. This is completely painless, and your pet will gently drift away. At Tribe Vets we carefully tailor everything to your individual pet. This means we will often give an injection that takes effect gradually over a period of around 15 - 20 minutes.
4. Aftercare Options: After your pet has passed, you can choose from several options:
   • Home burial
   • Individual cremation with ashes returned in a scatter tube or casket
   • Cremation without ashes returned - the ashes will be scattered in a wildflower meadow at the crematorium

Coping with the Grief

At Tribe we’re not just here for the medical care, we’re here for the emotional support too. Never hesitate to reach out for guidance, reassurance, or simply a listening ear.

Final Thoughts

Saying goodbye is never easy, but choosing to relieve your pet from pain or suffering is one of the kindest, most loving decisions you can make. When the time comes, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to provide a peaceful, dignified passing for your beloved companion, in your own home, where they feel safest.