Protocol For Preparing The Loss Of A Companion Animal
This chapter reviews literature and research on loss and grief. The literature is summarized to direct clinical practitioners, both in veterinary medicine and psychology, regarding how to help prepare people emotionally before a companion animal is euthanized.
From the introduction:
“This chapter presents an applied, systematic overview of the various pet euthanasia-related issues that clinical experience has proven to be helpful for mental health practitioners to discuss with clients should the request for guidance occur. In order to orient mental health practitioners the chapter also describes what per owners can expect to experience during the companion animal euthanasia procedure itself.”
Chapter sections include:
- Family-Present Euthanasia: Protocols for Planning and Preparing Clients for the Death of a Pet
- Companion Animal Euthanasia in Today’s Veterinary Medicine
- Helping Clients Move Through Choices Surrounding Companion Animal Euthanasia
- Timing
- Presence During Death
- Logistics
- Appointment Times
- Location
- Procedural Details
- Day-of-Euthanasia Support
- Memorializing
- Body Care
- What Clients Can Expect During a Pet’s Euthanasia
- After-Death Follow-Up
- Grief Following Pet Loss
- Conclusion