“Baxter, our dog of 12 years is sick. I am sure he is suffering. He doesn’t want to play, his appetite is poor, going for a walk is an effort for him and a struggle for us. I am trying to convince my husband, my son and daughter that it is time to euthanize Baxter. They refuse to listen. I don’t know what to do or what to say anymore. It is breaking my heart, I love him and I don’t want to let him go as well, but I am also aware of what is best for him. All I do is cry.”
Does that sound familiar? Which side of the fence do you sit on? The process of euthanizing a pet is gruelling and when there are several family members, attempting to get everyone on the same side of the fence adds another level of hardship.
Every member played a different role in the pet’s life. What may be the right time for one is not necessarily the right time for all. Have a family discussion, talk it through, be honest with your feelings and be mindful that getting a 100% consensus is not a reality. Emotions will probably get high, be respectful and sensitive to each other, listen to what each family member has to say, do your best to keep the discussion as calm as possible, take several breaks. There are no easy answers. If you come to an impasse, think about having a third party mediate the discussion. Most importantly, be aware that everyone is hurting.
Because I truly care.
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