How to Handle the Death of a Pet

The passing of a beloved pet, whether expected or not, can be a very difficult time for a family. Often when it happens, people are distraught and unsure of what to do.

When a pet passes away, the first thing to consider are the feelings and emotions of the family. Young children should be told what has happened, but they do not need to see the deceased animal being handled or taken away. First move children and grieving spouses to another part of the house, away from the area where the pet is. Another good idea is to have the family leave and go to the park or to get ice cream; something positive and distracting. Second, if there are other pets in the home or yard isolate them from the deceased animal.

Decide how to handle burying or removing the pet from the premises. Different sized pets may be handled in different ways. Goldfish may be given a proper burial at sea (ie: flushed) or they may be buried in the yard. Small pets, like hamsters and parakeets may be buried, but beware if there is a dog cohabiting the yard, they may be tempted to dig up the animal.

If the deceased pet is of a medium to large size, call the veterinarian's office where you normally took the pet for checkups. Many will handle disposing of the animal for you. If this is the option that you choose, use two large black garbage bags and wear a pair of gloves. Carefully pull the first garbage bag over the pet and pull the drawstrings to close the bag. Pull the second bag over the pet from the opposite direction. Using two bags helps to contain any excretions from seeping into your vehicle while transporting them to the vet. It is a good idea not to bury a large animal in the yard for a number of reasons. First, kids and animals have a tendency to dig in the dirt and you don't want them to unearth a dead pet. Second, as a pet's body decays, it may leave a void in the yard that could collapse if someone steps in the wrong spot.

Use care when handling the body of your deceased pet. If you are overcome with emotions and unable to handle removing the pet from the premises, call a friend or another family member to help you.


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How to Keep a Small Dog Still While Grooming

Are you trying to brush a hyperactive smaller dog that just won't stay still? Do you need to get that harness on, but your dog has other plans? Here's how to take charge.

One of the challenges of owning a small dog is that they tend to be a little hyper at times. This poses a problem when you need to do something as simple as brush the dog or put a harness on it. The first thing to do is to issue the dog the command to "sit." If the dog has not yet learned this command, then just try your best to corner it and pick it up.

Carefully place the dog in the middle of the nearest counter top or table. A bathroom counter top is another ideal place. The dog normally will stand completely still while you apply whatever treatment is necessary. Be sure to keep a firm hold on the dog. You do not want it to get away and fall off the counter.

While brushing the dog or putting on it's harness, speak soft words of praise to reassure them that they are behaving appropriately and that what you are doing is not punishment.

When the ordeal is finished, carefully pick up the dog and place it gently on the floor. If the dog is familiar with commands like "sit" or "stay", have it perform one of these tricks and then offer a treat as a reward for being so good.

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