Pup and Purr 2021 | Page 25

what ' s up doc
Dr . Jess states , “ Many people only see euthanasia as the difficult decision to end life . I see it as an opportunity to let pets pass on comfortably , without stress or suffering . It ’ s the hardest decision a pet owner will ever have to make , but I can be there to help them determine when and how it happens . Natural death is not always as peaceful as we want it to be .”
The decision for humane euthanasia is often not the hardest part for pet parents . Families are often confident about their decision , knowing they are doing what is right for their pet . But for many pets , the veterinary clinic is associated with fear and anxiety , so owners want to spare them this stress in their final moments . Also , most people prefer to not be in a public setting while experiencing grief and attempting to process the loss of their pet . It ’ s heartbreaking to imagine what pet owners feel on their drive home without their beloved pet or with their deceased pet going home for burial .
“ The blessing of in-home euthanasia is the most rewarding in my entire career and life ,” Dr . Jess explained . “ This profession is like nothing else . I had no idea how much my world would be touched by helping these pet parents . In their own home , they can embrace their family members , lie on their living room floors or curl up on their beds with their pets . We have euthanized pets on their sunny front porches , on dad ’ s recliner , in their own beds , and in their parent ’ s arms . The outpouring of support from heartbroken yet grateful , loving , and compassionate owners is absolutely unbelievable . It has been the most fulfilling thing I have ever done as a veterinarian . The families I have met bring me to tears and give me so much strength to keep providing such a difficult yet fulfilling service .”
One of Dr . Jess ’ favorite sayings is that she is available to help you “ write the perfect ending to the greatest story ever told ”— the story of your pet ’ s life with their family . Our pets give us many years of love and loyalty , and it ’ s only natural to want to make their senior years as comfortable and enjoyable as possible . Aging is a normal part of life , and with some vigilance and attention to your dog ’ s health , these can truly be “ golden years ” for both pets and their owners . And when the time comes , we can say goodbye gently and lovingly , with gratitude for a life well lived .
PupandPurr . com 23