When it’s time to say goodbye

Bereavement support and advice for those making decisions in times of grief.

We’re here to support you

At Davies, we understand this is a tough time for you and your family and we’re here to support and offer advice and comfort. We do, of course, realise there is a lot of information to take in, and a lot of hard decisions you may have to make. Our team are always on hand to answer any questions you may have. This page explains our philosophy and may help you understand why we’re giving you certain advice, and help you make the right decision for your pet.

The death of a pet can be a highly charged and upsetting experience. Circumstances such as sudden death and prolonged illness and gradual decline, all elicit very strong emotions for all concerned; we as a team understand this and will do our utmost to support you, especially in times of restricted access due to Covid-19.

At Davies, our practice values are integrity, professionalism, compassion and respect. All of our team strive to embody these values, and this is never more important than at the end of a pet’s life.

Choosing the best option for your pet

When deciding whether to proceed with a treatment for a severely ill or debilitated patient, there are several factors to consider. These include your pet’s individual personality, the ethics of the procedure, and ultimately, the prognosis and the likelihood of your pet recovering well enough to enjoy a good quality of life.

Our preferred aim would always be to send you home with a healthy pet, but sometimes, when there is no hope of a full recovery or when your pet would suffer unacceptably in our attempts to find a diagnosis or cure or to prolong their life, the kindest thing to do may be to end the pet’s suffering. We can help, advise and support you through this decision-making process. We recognise that this support may need to be virtual via remote video and phone calls whilst we are in Covid-19 related lockdowns, but be assured we are here for you.

How we can help

The team at Davies have all experienced loss of their own beloved pets. We truly empathise with all owners going through the incredibly difficult decision-making process for their seriously ill pets. There are complex issues to discuss at an emotional time. Our clinicians will do their utmost to support and guide you as you decide when the right time is to say goodbye. Working with your local vet, we will also advise on whether your pet could be put to sleep at your home, or if it would be kindest and safest for this to happen either on our premises or at your local clinic.

You can count on our help and support during this difficult time.

Our Bereavement Co-Ordinator is available to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

Simply call 01582 883950 for more information.

Davies Veterinary Specialists support pet owners faced with bereavement

Bereavement Support

The following organisations provide information you may find helpful and can offer support:

Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS)

Pet Owners can contact Blue Cross via phone or email to speak to a trained volunteer. Phone lines are open daily from 8:30 am – 8:30 pm.

Website: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-bereavement-and-pet-loss

Tel: 0800 096 6606

Cats Protection

Offer online information, as well as a support phone line for owners.

Website: www.cats.org.uk/what-we-do/grief

Phone: 0800 024 94 94

Compassion Understood

Provide online advice and support for pet owners at their pet’s end-of-life.

Website: https://www.compassionunderstood.com/

The Samaritans

Anybody can call The Samaritans’ free phone line to talk about anything that they are struggling with, including the loss of a pet. They are open 24 hours a day, every day. They can also be contacted via email.

Website: https://www.samaritans.org

Phone: 116 123

Email: [email protected]

Mind

Mental Health Charity. Can guide owners in the right direction to find the help that they need.

Website: www.mind.org.uk

Phone: 0300 123 3393