What to do if your pet suddenly dies at home

 

Sometimes this happens so quickly and unexpectedly you don’t know what to do with your pet.  Here are some suggestions.

 

Move the pet to a cool location, preferably inside your home. This will help keep flies and other insects away from it.

 

If you have pee pads, place one under your pet’s hindquarters and one under the head. If you don’t have pads, use old towels instead.

 

If you are unable to bring the pet inside, try to completely wrap it in an old sheet and move it into shade.

 

For very small pets, such as  small cats, dogs, rats or bearded dragons or birds etc.  you may choose to gently wrap your pet in a towel or blanket and place it in your refrigerator or freezer. This is the best option if you don’t know what you want to do or need to talk to family members.

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It is very hard to contemplate the loss of a beloved pet.  It helps when a pet is ill or aged to go ahead and find the crematory you want to work with when the end does come. 

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Just remember, you do not have to use your veterinarian's crematory.  Knowing which crematory in advance, speaking with the people who will take care of your pet, and getting your questions answered will help ease your mind.