Saying the Hard Part Out Loud: How to Know When it’s Time to Say Goodbye to Your Beloved Pet

It’s the time you don’t think about when you bring that new puppy or kitten home; their sweet puppy breath or powerful kitten purrs bringing you joy… It’s not top of mind through their lifetime with you either, while you’re teaching them to ‘give a paw’, or sitting through long car rides to get to your next summer adventure, or when you’re curled up on the couch together at night.

You’re probably still not thinking about it when times are tough for you - whether it’s a bad day, a break up, work stress or something else, and your pet is undoubtedly by your side, with their head in your lap or paw on your chest, actively seeking ways to comfort you.

But, the time always comes.

How to Know When it’s Time to say Goodbye

You’ll often hear folks say “your pet will just know,” but dogs in particular often hide signs of pain and distress. Your veterinarian could be a good resource to consult with, especially one who has known your pet for its lifetime. Our partners at Gateway Pet Memorial have crafted this list of ways to know when it’s time:

1. When your pet’s health, mobility or comfort have been declining slowly, it may be helpful to view photos or videos of your pet from before the illness. Remember how your pet looked, behaved and interacted with you.

2. Make a list of three to five things your pet likes to do, such as going for walks, playing with other pets, or enjoying their meals. When your pet is consistently unable to enjoy these things, it may be time to discuss euthanasia.

3. Mark good and bad days on a calendar. This could be as simple as a happy or sad face for good or bad. As the bad days start to outnumber the good, it may be time to consider end of life care.

End of Life Care and Pet Memorial Services at the HBSPCA

The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA is here when you need us. Every single one of our animal-loving staff has experienced the loss of a pet and we’re here to offer compassionate end of life and memorial services for your pet.

• End of Life Care Resources, including low-cost euthanasia and cremation services as well as a guide of frequently asked questions by pet parents like you can be found here.

• Bereaved pet parents are welcome to secure a permanent resting place for their pet here at the HBSPCA. Our outdoor mausoleum offers a serene place to honour your pet’s memory.

• Add an engraved plaque with photos of your pet to our Precious Memories wall at the HBSPCA shelter where you are welcome to visit and share memories.

• Add your pet to our digital precious memory wall, where they’ll be in good company and celebrated online every day.  

At our Pet Bereavement Education and Support sessions, Julie connects with people who have lost their animal companions. They safely share stories and tears, photographs and memories, and heal together with Julie's skilled guidance.

Sessions are held in Hamilton on the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm. You can learn more about the support group here.

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“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

— A.A. Milne, The Complete Tales of Winnie the Pooh

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