by Janice Robinson-Celeste

Losing a family pet is one of the most emotionally intense experiences many of us will ever face. These loyal companions are not just animals. They are witnesses to our lives, confidants in our loneliest moments, and beloved family members. When they pass, they take a piece of our hearts with them.

This is dedicated to Gigi, a white Maltese I had since she was just nine weeks old. She wasn’t just a dog; she was my travel buddy, my comfort, my constant. Gigi went everywhere with me. She lived a beautiful life full of joy and love. She was well-traveled, well-fed, and well-loved. And even knowing she had a great life didn’t make saying goodbye any easier. Gigi was the best dog. She will never be forgotten. She lives in my family’s heart forever.

When the End Is Near: What Families Should Know

As pets age or face terminal illness, we often get the chance to prepare emotionally, though nothing ever feels like enough. That final stretch can be full of small decisions that carry deep meaning. If your pet is approaching the end, consider the following:

The Importance of a YOLO Moment

If your pet is still mobile or alert, give them the gift of their favorite things—what we lovingly call their “YOLO moment.” Gigi had steak for her last meal. She spent her final week enjoying hot dogs, something she absolutely loved. I took her on a last walk to her favorite spot, nestled in a pet stroller since she was too weak to walk. These are the moments we will treasure.

Ways to honor your pet’s final days:

• Let them eat their favorite (safe) foods.
• Spend uninterrupted time cuddling or sitting in the sun.
• Play their favorite sounds like music, nature, or even your voice. This is a sacred time.
• Take them to a place they love, even if it’s just in your arms.

These acts of love give them dignity, joy, and closure. And they offer us a form of peace amid the heartbreak.

Understanding the Euthanasia Process

When pets are suffering, euthanasia can be the kindest choice. But it’s also one of the hardest decisions we’ll ever have to make. Knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety:

1. Sedation First: Your vet will administer a sedative so your pet relaxes completely and falls into a deep sleep.
2. Final Injection: A second injection gently stops the heart. It is quick and completely painless.
3. You Can Be Present: I knew I had to be there for Gigi. I held her in my arms as she passed. What I didn’t expect was feeling the life drain from her little body. That moment was traumatic, something I will never forget or fully get over. As a sensitive person, I may have felt it more deeply, but for many, this is a sacred moment of transition.

Important Tip: If you’re unsure about being present, talk to your vet about what to expect so you can make the right decision for you and your pet.

When There’s No Time to Prepare: Coping with Sudden Pet Loss

While some families have the gift of time to prepare for a pet’s passing, many others are blindsided by sudden loss. A tragic accident, unexpected illness, or medical emergency can take a beloved pet’s life without warning, and the shock can be devastating.

When you lose a pet suddenly, there’s no opportunity for last meals, walks, or goodbyes. The emotional impact may include guilt (“What if I had gotten there sooner?”), helplessness, or disbelief. It can feel impossible to make sense of the absence.

For parents:

• Be gentle with yourself. Sudden loss is traumatic. You didn’t fail your pet. You loved them every day you had them, and they knew that.
• If your child witnessed the event, let them talk through what happened and ask questions. Don’t minimize or rush their emotions. Use calm, honest language and reassure them it wasn’t their fault.

For children:

Kids may internalize sudden loss and become fearful, especially if they saw the incident. Offer comfort, reinforce their safety, and answer questions simply.

Say:
“Sometimes our loved ones leave us very quickly, and we don’t get to say goodbye the way we want. But Gigi knew she was loved. She felt safe and cared for every day.”

Healing after a sudden loss may require:

• A private goodbye ritual after the fact (a small memorial, letter writing, or lighting a candle)
• Making space for big emotions, even days or weeks later
• Telling stories about the pet’s life, not just their final moment

You can still honor your pet’s legacy through rituals and remembrance, even if their goodbye was unplanned.

Supporting Children Through Pet Loss

Children process grief differently based on their age and developmental stage. It’s important to validate their feelings, even if they express them in unexpected ways.

Toddlers (1–3):
They sense change but don’t grasp death. Keep routines steady and offer comfort.
Say: “Gigi is not coming back, but we loved her very much.”

Preschoolers (3–6):
They may think death is reversible. Be gentle but truthful. Avoid saying “went to sleep.”
Activity: Let them draw pictures of your pet or write a goodbye letter.

School-Age (7–12):
They understand death is permanent and may feel guilt or sadness.
Tip: Let them plan a part of the memorial. Encourage talking and questions.

Teens (13+):
Teens may suppress their emotions or feel responsible.
Tip: Create space for them to express themselves without pressure. Journaling or sharing on social media can help.

Family Rituals for Saying Goodbye

Rituals offer closure and a path forward. Here are some to consider:

• Pet Memorial Service: Light candles, play music, and share stories as a family.
• Memory Box: Collect your pet’s collar, toys, tags, photos, and letters.
• Plant a Tree or Flowers: A living tribute helps children understand the cycle of life.
• Paw Print Art: Many vets offer clay or ink paw prints. Display them in a special place.
• Photo Book: Create a scrapbook or digital album of their life.

When Grief Feels Overwhelming

It’s okay if you’re not okay. Losing a pet can trigger profound grief, especially for sensitive souls or those who relied on their pet for emotional support.

• Be patient with yourself. Grief doesn’t have a timeline.
• Say their name. Talk about them often. Their memory deserves to live on.
• Get support. Some therapists specialize in pet loss and support groups online.

If your child is not bouncing back after a few weeks, consider talking with a grief counselor who works with children.

Final Arrangement

You’ll need to decide how to care for your pet’s remains. Talk to your vet ahead of time if possible:

• Cremation (individual or communal) – You can keep the ashes in an urn, locket, or scatter them somewhere meaningful.
• Burial – At home (if legal) or in a pet cemetery.
• Keepsakes – Clay paw prints, fur clippings, or personalized memorials.

Gigi’s Legacy and Yours

Gigi was my baby, my angel in a furry body. Her little tail, her big heart, and our quiet moments together will stay with me forever. She taught me and my family how to love unconditionally. And though the pain of her absence is deep, I’m grateful for every second we shared.

If you’re reading this after just losing your beloved pet, know this: You’re not alone. It is difficult for me too. You are allowed to grieve deeply. Your love was real. Their spirit lives on in the joy they brought to your life.

Please consider sharing your pet’s story in the comments. Share their name, their quirks, or a funny memory. Someone else may be reading this, brokenhearted, needing to know they aren’t the only one hurting.

Gigi, thank you for every wag, every cuddle, and every quiet comfort. I will love you forever. 🐾