How To Decide On End of Life Care
My pet clients call on me to assist them through the difficult decisions they face when their pet is critically ill or at the age when the end of life is nearing. Because our pets live with us and not in the wild, end of life decisions for pets fall to their owners.
The choice is always difficult and comes with many questions about appropriate timing. There is often a sense of guilt in ending the life of their constant companion.
My Experience
I had my own experience with when I faced the decision to put down my yellow lab, Mattie. She had been experiencing extensive pain and it was beyond medical treatment.
Mattie had received Jin Shin Jyutsu from me for many years, which gave her a wonderful quality of life, but it was clear that she was finally ready to go.
Even I, knowing this, struggled with the decision about the right timing. I leaned heavily on the thought that she would be free from pain and we would one day be reunited.
Make The Last Moments Memorable
Our wonderful vet agreed to come to my home. All day that day I spent time with Mattie, sharing Jin Shin Jyutsu to help her relax and to connect deeply with her one more time. Our cat, Bubba never left her side, including once the vet arrived.
While Margaret applied the medicine, Bubba and I stayed right there with Mattie. I told her I loved her and we would always be together. Mattie looked at me, sighed a last breath and was gone. Peaceful, beautiful, but I was still very sad.
How You Remember Them
Pet owners always question their motives and the timing of euthanasia. It is a big responsibility not to be taken lightly. I was no different.
After Margaret left with Mattie’s body, I went upstairs to shower and wash away my tears. As the water flowed over me I questioned if Mattie would truly be “OK” and if my decision was sound.
Suddenly a vision came as clear as day. It was Mattie! She was running through a green field not unlike the one behind our home where I’d run her when she was young, strong, and energetic.
She was happy and playing just as we had together. Just that quickly the vision was gone, but I knew in my heart that it was a gift from her. Mattie would be fine.
She was free from the body that was giving her pain. Knowing this in my heart, I was able to remember the beauty of our friendship together. I hope that one day when my life comes to an end, Mattie will be in that big green field waiting for me.
Connect with Jennifer
If you’re interested in learning more about Jin Shin Jyutsu services for palliative care for your dog, cat, horse, or other pet, contact me. No matter the stage of life, it doesn’t matter. I’d love to help you.