Losing a pet at home can feel overwhelming, especially if the loss is unexpected. People facing the loss of a pet often feel grief, sorrow, and become flooded with questions. Below is gentle guide to help you through the first hours with clarity and care.
1. Give yourself space to feel
Sit quietly with your pet, hold them if it feels right, and begin to say goodbye in your own way. There’s no rush. Grief isn’t linear, and you deserve time to process.
2. Confirm your pet has passed
If you’re unsure, look for signs like no breathing, no heartbeat, no response to voice or touch. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian or local emergency vet hospital for confirmation.
3. Respect the body and preserve dignity
Lay your pet on a blanket or towel. You may wrap them gently, place them in their favorite resting position, or include a favorite toy or collar. If needed, use cooling packs beneath the body to slow natural changes.
If you live in a warmer climate, avoiding placing their body in direct sunlight as heat accelerates the natural decomposition process and can complicate aftercare procedures.
4. Explore aftercare options sooner rather than later
Decide if you want cremation (flame or water/aquamation), burial, or another memorial option. Contact trusted providers for pricing, timelines, and logistical details.
If you live in or near Las Vegas and need pet aftercare support and services, reach out to us directly by calling (702) 550-2782. We are here to help you honor your pet with compassion, dignity, and clarity.
5. Seek emotional support
Speak with pet loss support hotlines, online groups, or friends who understand how deeply this hurts. Journaling, memorial rituals, or sharing memories can bring comfort. If you don’t know where to begin with finding emotional support, visit our blog post on pet loss and grief support resources.