One of the hardest parts of sharing life with a fur baby is facing the moment we must say goodbye. For many pet parents, this is an incredibly difficult and deeply personal decision — one that only you can make.
Choosing to end your pet’s suffering is the final, selfless act of love. In doing so, you carry the pain of missing them so that they no longer feel pain. We’re here to support you through every step of this emotional journey in our office or in the comfort of your home. Through our partnership with Pet Angel, we help honor your pet’s memory and care for them with the same love they gave you.
At Grand Oaks Pet Hospital, our team is here to help assess your pet’s quality of life and guide you with compassion and honesty.
It may be time to consider euthanasia if:
We understand how difficult it is to accept these changes, but you're not alone in making this decision. We will walk you through the options with empathy and clarity.
This is a deeply emotional experience for the whole family. Honest, age-appropriate conversations can help everyone — especially children — understand and process the situation.
Children often have a strong bond with their pets and deserve space to express their grief. Avoiding the conversation may increase confusion or sadness. Simple, truthful explanations and opportunities to say goodbye can help them begin to heal.
Saying goodbye is a vital part of the grieving process. You might choose to:
There is no "right" way to say goodbye — only what feels right for you and your family.
Yes. Euthanasia is a peaceful and humane procedure. Here’s what to expect:
We aim to make the process as gentle and dignified as possible. Whenever we can, we schedule euthanasia appointments at the end of the day to ensure privacy and quiet.
Aftercare Options
We offer several options for aftercare, and we’ll discuss them with you when you are ready.
Most ashes and keepsakes are returned within one week.
Remembering Your Pet
Honoring your pet’s life can help you and your family find comfort. Some ways to celebrate their memory include:
The time we have with our pets may be short, but it’s filled with unconditional love, loyalty, and joy. Your grief is a reflection of how deeply you loved — and were loved.
Grief is natural. It may come in waves and express itself in many forms, including:
These are all normal. Be gentle with yourself and allow time to heal. If grief becomes overwhelming, talking to a counselor, grief support group, or therapist may help. Please explore the videos and support links we’ve provided below. Don’t bottle it up — talk it out.
You don’t have to carry this pain alone.
Unfortunately, not everyone will fully grasp the depth of your bond with your pet — and that’s okay. Surround yourself with those who do understand. Seek out pet loss support groups, forums, or individuals who will validate your grief and provide comfort.
This decision is entirely personal. Some find healing in adopting another pet, while others may need time — or may choose not to at all.
A new pet will never replace the one you lost, but one day, you may be ready to open your heart again. Make this decision as a family, and only when the time feels right.
At Grand Oaks Pet Hospital, we consider it an honor to care for your beloved companion — in life and in death. If you need support, guidance, or simply someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Here are additional resources to help you grieve.
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
