How to Cope With the Imminent or Sudden Death of a Pet

If a pet should have an accident and/or die and there are only children in the house, it is important that they are aware of what to do. They should know that it is an emergency and that they need to use the phone. Make sure that the phone numbers of a nearby relative, veterinarian or a trusted neighbor are close by the phone and that the children can see them without having to hunt for them. Children should be aware that the first thing they do to help their pet is to call someone for help. Click here for a form that can be easily printed and filled in for your convenience.

Sadly, it is nearly impossible to be ready for the sudden death of a pet. No one can be expected to have such a situation on his or her mind 24 hours a day; life is about living after all! The only thing that you can do is to try and understand the grieving process so when the inevitable does finally occur, you will be ready to cope with the loss of the pet and be better equipped to help your children cope at such a distressing time.

What should I do if my pet dies at home?

Until decisions and preparations can be made, find the coldest part of your dwelling, such as the basement floor (away from heat), garage floor, or in cold weather, an enclosed porch or the trunk of your car. (DO NOT PLACE THE PET OUTSIDE IN AN UNPROTECTED AREA). Lay a piece of plastic down first. Place newspapers on next. Lay the pet directly on the newspapers or, if you prefer, lay a blanket or towel down next. Cover the pet with another blanket, towel or sheet.

What if my pet dies while at the Veterinarian's?

Try not to panic. There is no hurry on making a hasty decision. Most veterinary clinics or hospitals cooperate with pet cemeteries and have cold storage where your pet can be kept for a day or two until you decide your options. Most veterinary clinics will place the pet in a plastic bag known as a body bag.

Can I see my pet again?

If your pet should die at a veterinary hospital, you may view your pet there. Some clinics require someone to identify the pet and make arrangements for it's after-death body care disposition. Veterinarians are trained in health care and disease prevention, they are not necessarily trained in afterlife pet care. Emotional support and guidance will vary with professionals. If the choice is to have the pet buried or cremated at a pet cemetery, arrangements can be made to have proper viewing of the pet prior to burial or cremation. These services are similar to those offered for humans. Usually there is an extra charge for body care and viewing. Viewing is an important step in making a healthy adjustment from the trauma of pet loss.

In Case of Fire

Your pets are cherished members of your family. That's why they should be part of your family's fire safety program. Safe evacuation comes from advanced planning. And this involves your pets too.

Remember their usual hiding and sleeping places. During a fire your pet will be as terrified as you and will most likely hide rather than attempt to flee. If possible, escort your pets to safety on leashes or in crates or cages.

In an emergency, a cat can be safely carried in a pillow case.

It is crucial that your pet is properly identified in case you are separated during or after a fire. Take your pet to the vets as soon as possible afterwards. Pets have small lungs and can suffer serious smoke inhalation in a matter of minutes or may have burns under their fur.

For a free "Fireman, Please Save our Pets" sign for your window, contact Pet Plan Insurance at 1-877-4-Pet Plan or send an e-mail to petplan@hedinc.com.

(FAQ courtesy of International Association of Pet Cemeteries)