Question

We’ve made the decision to euthanize one of our two dogs. How can we help the other one through the grieving process?

Answer

It’s very common for our pets to go through a grieving process a lot like our own when they lose a person or animal they know well. This process may have begun with your dog when his canine companion became ill and perhaps was hospitalized. You may have seen signs of sadness, depression, searching the house, a reduced appetite, or other unusual behaviors.

Some pet owners choose to allow the remaining pet a chance to view the body of the deceased pet after euthanasia. They believe that it helps the pet that’s left behind to understand what’s happened and to process the loss. You may want to discuss this option with your veterinarian before euthanizing the household pet that is ill.

For more information on dealing with you and your pet’s grief and the loss of a beloved animal companion, see Dealing With the Loss of a Pet, and Saying Goodbye to a Pet.