What Pet Parents Might Learn From My Dog’s Recent Passing in Memphis

A month ago, my beloved dog, Charlie, passed away.  This was an  incredibly difficult and emotional time. As a dog owner, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure your pet’s comfort and well-being during this challenging period. I’d like to share my first hand experience in Memphis; by sharing, perhaps my experience  can help other pet parents through the process.   

When faced with the impending loss of a beloved furry friend, it is crucial to prioritize their comfort and quality of life.  Here are 7 steps that I took for my Charlie.

1. Consult with my Veterinarian:

I reached out to Dr. Johnson of the Memphis Animal Clinic.   She was able to provide guidance and support during this very difficult time. She helped  assess Charlie’s failing kidney  condition and offered advice on managing pain or discomfort.

2. Evaluate Quality of Life: 

I utilized some online resources to assess Charlie’s quality of life.  Based on his high pain, decrease in mobility, no appetite, and constant whining and wimpering throughout the day, it became clear that euthanasia was the most compassionate choice for Charlie.

3. Decide  Euthanasia Options: 

After speaking with my vet,  I decided that at-home euthanasia was preferred to in-clinic euthanasia.  I researched google and decided to book Dr. Mays at CodaPet since she was available on Friday.   Dr Mays was so kind, caring and informative. She explained everything until we understood the entire process.. It was so important to me that we give Charlie the most peaceful passing, and Dr Mays definitely helped us do that. I’m very glad to have been able to provide dignity and compassion for my Charlie with in-home euthanasia.

4. Pet Photographers:

To capture precious memories of Charlie before he passed away, I considered hiring  a professional pet photographer to capture the last moments with.   Unfortunately, Charlie’s health deteriorated too quickly and I was unable to hire a pet photographers in Memphis.

5.  Pet Crematories:

After Charlie passed, I decided for individual cremation.   Dr. Mays of CodaPet offered to  assist but it was important for me to handle  this myself as part of closure and healting.   I choose individual cremation at Pet Cremation Services of Memphis and was able to wait for Charlie’s ashes that was returned to me inside  a nice urn.

6. Pet Cemeteries:

I evaluated pet cemeteries as a burial option for Charlie. While there are several dedicated pet cemeteries in Memphis that could have been an ideal resting place for Charlie, I decided to spread his ashes along Charlie and my  favorite hike.   Charlie was happiest during our outdoor walks together .

7. Pet Memorials:

I decided to create  a memorial for Charlie to honor his memory and cope with the loss. After researching online, my favorite 3 ideas for pet memorials, including:    creating a personalized scrapbook,   donating to a local pet shelter, and planting a tree.    I ended up creating a photo album and  planted a tree at the beginning of our favorite hike.   I remember Charlie during his  happiest moments.

Losing Charlie was perhaps the most challenging experience that I’ve faced in the past decade.    I know that Charlie passed peacefully at home on his favorite couch and I will be thinking of Charlie whenever I go for our favorite hike.