I’m proud to be a nostalgic person who loves creating memories I can reminisce over. Reflecting on the life of my pets is a perfect example. Pets are woven into the fabric of our lives, and sometimes, we need a reminder of how special and valuable their friendship is to us. This is a great idea, but how can we help ourselves and the pet families we work with preserve these moments while they are still with us?
When I meet with pet owners to discuss a hospice plan for their pet, we always close the conversation with ideas to help them remember seemingly simple/mundane, yet important times. Examples include photos of their pet eating their favorite foods, writing down the quirky ways they would nap, and so much more. Owners can have a new perspective on their pet’s hospice journey and make it even more meaningful by prioritizing capturing special moments. Let’s look at suggestive ways you can help pet owners create lasting moments during the final days leading up to hospice-supported natural death or euthanasia, and beyond.
- Write stories in a journal. Document a pet’s journey by writing in a journal, beginning with the pet’s “gotcha” story. Note daily routines, describe an adventure together, or even write something as simple as which toys or treats are their favorites.
- Share memories on social media. Allow the pet to be a social media darling, giving other pet owners the chance to reflect and be reminded of pets they love. Some people may share more profound stories in the community that is created. My middle-grade son recently became interested in making YouTube shorts, and his best-performing ones have included one or both of our cats. Even though this isn’t my strength, the relationship he is crafting with our pets is only strengthened by the content he’s creating.
- Review photos and videos. This is one of the best things to do with a living pet to preserve memories and create a log of what used to be normal for comparison as the pet nears the end. Perhaps a particular behavior or activity is remembered that was stopped because their pet had difficulty doing it. Taking a trip down memory lane can be helpful in decision-making and planning. Veterinary professionals can troubleshoot with pet owners to see when and if adjustments to the care plan need to be made. And, of course, these images will be treasured forever. Pampering a pet for a professional photo shoot is an option, but remember that the ways we can monitor and memorialize don’t have to be grand or expensive.
- Explore your artistic side. Create art using paw prints or even fur for display in the home. Art projects are a great way to have younger family members express their love for a pet. The time spent making such items with pet owners offers an opportunity for conversations to answer end-of-life questions and further discuss the care plan.
While many of these thoughts are focused on the individual, including many people in memorialization is not out of the question. If the pet is a social butterfly, pet owners can celebrate life by hosting a party where friends and family come to honor the connection they have made. Attendees can certainly be of the animal variety, too! Recommend pet owners bake a special treat or cake as the main event or have the people who attend write down a special memory they have shared. This can be incredibly healing for pet families experiencing anticipatory grief.
Bucket lists for pets near the end of life have gained popularity in recent years. They are a wonderful way to incorporate adventure in those final days for pets who would welcome it. Bucket items can include places to see for the first time and visiting favorite places or old friends. What a great opportunity to take photos and journal on quality time spent together.
Once a patient enters their geriatric years or the actual hospice time, it’s important to remind pet owners that they have been providing incredible love and support for their pet. Having attainable activities to offer grieving owners will serve as a much-needed reminder that they have been honoring their pet from day one.
References
Memorializing a pet. (2024, July 31). AAHA. https://www.aaha.org/resources/2016-aaha-iaahpc-end-of-life-care-guidelines/memorializing-a-pet/
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