Loss of a pet

For when the time comes

The loss of a pet can be a sad event filled with feelings of grief and loss.  As pet owners ourselves, at Hillside Vets we know this is like losing a member of the family.  Sadly, sometimes decisions have to be made to end a pet’s life to prevent suffering and we are here to help ease the pain as much as we can with a gentle and sympathetic approach; there’s always a shoulder to cry on and a cup of tea. All of our staff have undergone bereavement training.  Please feel free to contact any of us at this difficult time.

Because we know how difficult this time is we place a lit candle and notice on our reception desk. 

Showing respect to others at a time like this is the least we can do.

 If you would like more information on the loss of a pet please see https://www.compassionunderstood.com/

We use the professional services of Pet Cremation Services www.pcsonline.org.uk providing a dignified cremation service with the choice of a communal cremation or an individual cremation with your pet’s ashes returned in a wooden casket.  Hillside Vets will take care of all the arrangements on your behalf.

 Children and the loss of a pet

Children can grieve for a pet differently to adults, mostly because they do not fully understand the situation.  They will need to be comforted in a special way and we at Hillside Vets are more than happy to give advice if needed.  

We believe it’s always best to include children in the loss of the family pet as it’s a part of natural life and is something they will experience more than once in their lifetime.  Putting off telling them the truth may in the end result in confusion for your child.  It is better to listen gently to a child’s questions and answer them as truthfully as you can.

Another poem for those pets gone OTRB

They will not go quietly, the dogs who shared our lives

   In subtle ways they let us know their spirit still survives.

Old habits still make us think we hear a barking at the door

   Or step back when we drop a tasty morsel on the floor.

Our feet still go around the place the food dish used to be,

   And sometimes coming home at night, we miss them terribly.

And although time may bring new friends, and a new food dish to fill,

   That one place in our hearts belong to them… and always will

We found this at Just Over The Rainbow Bridge - a place that was created to promote healing, provide comfort, and includes a fabulous visitor's center for those who have expressed the sentiment 'I wish rainbow bridge had visitors hours.' 

How lovely is that.

We also found this and thought how beautiful it was.

From your pet...

'Time to go' by John Quealy

The time has come I think you know

The Lord is calling so I must go

I love you so much; I wish it wasn't so

I wish I could stay; I don't want to go

You're the best family a dog (or any pet) ever had

So kind and gentle, never mean or mad

I'll never forget the day that we met

I was so lucky to become your pet

You opened your door and showed me your heart

I'll never forget you; we'll never part

You loved me and cared for me over the years

You taught me everything and took away my fears

The Lord is calling now I must go

But before I go I want you to know

I know it hurts to lose a friend

But I'll always be with you even to the end.

Surviving pets

If your lost pet had a buddy this can also be a difficult time for them and many animals do grieve for their lost pal.  Always keep a close eye on their appetite, ensuring they are continuing to eat and drink. 

If you do have concerns that your pet has stopped eating or seems to have gone into a depression, then please do contact us and we will do everything we can to help.

It's a difficult time for everyone, including your fur-pals.