Written by Dr. Lianna
The death of a beloved companion is never easy. If your pet dies at home, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. The following steps will help guide you through this difficult time with care and dignity.
Confirming if Your Pet Has Died
If you are unsure if your pet has died, contact your veterinarian. You can bring your pet to your local veterinary clinic, where a veterinarian can confirm death and help arrange aftercare.
If you are unable to bring your pet to the vet, you may look for some common signs that can indicate death:
● Breathing: Gently place your hand on your pet’s chest to feel if there is any movement. Even the slightest rise and fall can mean your pet is still breathing.
● Heartbeat: If your pet is lying on their side, place your hand on the underside of the chest, just behind the front leg, where the heart naturally rests with gravity. You may feel a heartbeat if the heart is still beating.
● Eyes: After death, the eyes often remain open, the pupils dilate, and the glossy appearance fades. Touching the surface of the eye should not cause a blink reflex.
These signs may help you understand what is happening, but only a trained professional can confirm death. If you are uncertain, please reach out to your veterinarian for guidance.
Caring for Your Pet’s Body
● Place a disposable pad, towel, or absorbent fabric beneath your pet. Natural changes may occur, such as release of the bladder or bowels, or fluid from the chest, which may come out of the nose or mouth.
● Support your pet’s head and body carefully when moving them, as the body may feel limp until rigor mortis (stiffening) sets in.
● Wrap your pet in a towel or blanket in the position you would like them to remain, as stiffness develops within a few hours.
● Keep your pet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. If aftercare is delayed more than 24 hours, refrigeration or freezer storage is best if possible.
Aftercare Options
● Home burial: In the Ottawa/Gatineau area, you may bury your pet on your property (with the owner’s permission). Please see our Home Burial Instructions Sheet for guidance on preparing the site.
● Cremation or cemetery services: Many families choose professional aftercare. Your veterinarian can provide referrals, or you may contact a provider directly.
● Local services we work with: We normally work with Eternal Companions, a crematorium serving Ottawa/Gatineau. They can be reached at 613-656-0806.
Confirming if Your Pet Has Died
If you are unsure if your pet has died, contact your veterinarian. You can bring your pet to your local veterinary clinic, where a veterinarian can confirm death and help arrange aftercare.
If you are unable to bring your pet to the vet, you may look for some common signs that can indicate death:
● Breathing: Gently place your hand on your pet’s chest to feel if there is any movement. Even the slightest rise and fall can mean your pet is still breathing.
● Heartbeat: If your pet is lying on their side, place your hand on the underside of the chest, just behind the front leg, where the heart naturally rests with gravity. You may feel a heartbeat if the heart is still beating.
● Eyes: After death, the eyes often remain open, the pupils dilate, and the glossy appearance fades. Touching the surface of the eye should not cause a blink reflex.
These signs may help you understand what is happening, but only a trained professional can confirm death. If you are uncertain, please reach out to your veterinarian for guidance.
Caring for Your Pet’s Body
● Place a disposable pad, towel, or absorbent fabric beneath your pet. Natural changes may occur, such as release of the bladder or bowels, or fluid from the chest, which may come out of the nose or mouth.
● Support your pet’s head and body carefully when moving them, as the body may feel limp until rigor mortis (stiffening) sets in.
● Wrap your pet in a towel or blanket in the position you would like them to remain, as stiffness develops within a few hours.
● Keep your pet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. If aftercare is delayed more than 24 hours, refrigeration or freezer storage is best if possible.
Aftercare Options
● Home burial: In the Ottawa/Gatineau area, you may bury your pet on your property (with the owner’s permission). Please see our Home Burial Instructions Sheet for guidance on preparing the site.
● Cremation or cemetery services: Many families choose professional aftercare. Your veterinarian can provide referrals, or you may contact a provider directly.
● Local services we work with: We normally work with Eternal Companions, a crematorium serving Ottawa/Gatineau. They can be reached at 613-656-0806.