Planning Ahead, Asking Questions, and Appreciating the Time We Have
About fourteen months ago, Willie became seriously ill. He stopped eating for nearly a week, became weak, and was eventually diagnosed with what veterinarians believed to be spleen cancer along with tumors. The prognosis was difficult to hear, especially because large dogs often face additional risks with surgery and recovery.
Like many dog owners suddenly facing frightening medical news, I found myself researching end-of-life care options while emotionally exhausted and trying to prepare for possibilities I hoped would never come.
At Willie’s worst stage, even helping him outside became difficult. The thought of getting a weak 70-pound dog through a parking garage, into a vehicle, and to a veterinarian 30 minutes away felt overwhelming.
One morning, while drinking coffee and writing an email to an in-home end-of-life care provider, Willie quietly walked over to his food bowl and started eating. Since then, he has thankfully done remarkably well overall.
I am not second-guessing the veterinarians involved, and we still use the same veterinarian today. They were working with the information available at the time and trying to help Willie. But the experience taught me how quickly dog owners can suddenly find themselves facing emotional, financial, and practical decisions they may never have fully considered before.
In July, Willie turns 9 years old. Fourteen months ago, I was not sure we would get there.
Talking With Your Veterinarian Before a Crisis
One of the biggest lessons I took away from this experience is the importance of having conversations early — before emotions become overwhelming.
Most pet owners will likely work directly through their veterinarian if difficult end-of-life decisions eventually need to be made. Veterinary clinics often help coordinate:
- euthanasia services
- cremation arrangements
- transportation guidance
- aftercare services
- memorial options
Looking back, I probably should have spoken with my veterinarian before researching outside providers on my own. But fear, exhaustion, and uncertainty can make even basic decisions feel difficult when a beloved pet becomes seriously ill.
Having a conversation ahead of time may help owners better understand:
- what services their clinic offers directly
- what outside providers they work with
- transportation options for large or mobility-limited dogs
- private versus communal cremation
- estimated costs
- what happens during the process itself
Even if those conversations are uncomfortable, having information beforehand may reduce stress later.
At-Home Services vs. Veterinary Clinics
Many owners prefer to work through their regular veterinary clinic, especially if transportation is not an issue and the pet is already comfortable there.
Others may explore in-home hospice or euthanasia services, particularly if:
- the dog is very weak
- transportation is difficult
- the owner does not drive
- the dog experiences severe anxiety at clinics
- mobility challenges exist for either the pet or owner
In-home services can provide a calm and familiar environment, but costs may vary significantly depending on location and services provided.
Every family’s situation is different. There is no single “correct” decision.
Understanding Cremation and Aftercare Options
One thing many pet owners may not realize until facing these decisions is that several aftercare options usually exist.
Common options may include:
- private or individual cremation, where the pet is cremated separately and ashes are returned to the family
- communal or partitioned cremation, where multiple pets may be cremated during the same process
- memorial keepsakes
- paw print impressions
- urns or memorial boxes
Policies regarding ashes can vary depending on the provider and type of cremation selected. In some communal or partitioned cremation arrangements, ashes may still be returned, although they may not consist solely of one pet’s remains. Owners may want to ask providers directly how the process is handled and what options are available.
Helpful National Resources
The following organizations and resources may help pet owners begin researching hospice care, end-of-life support, grief resources, and aftercare options in their area.
ASPCA End of Life Care Guide
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/end-life-care
Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice
https://www.lapoflove.com
International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care (IAAHPC)
https://www.iaahpc.org
The Grey Muzzle Organization
https://www.greymuzzle.org
Appreciating the Ordinary Days
Since Willie’s diagnosis, I have not taken any day for granted. Daily walks, quiet evenings, and simple routines feel a little more meaningful than they once did. Each day feels like a gift.
I imagine many other dog owners feel the same way, regardless of the outcome they eventually face. Preparing for difficult possibilities does not mean giving up hope. In many ways, it simply means loving our dogs enough to appreciate the ordinary days while we still have them.
Thank you for visiting my website. Willie and I appreciate every reader more than you know.