Our animals are gifts to us for the time they grace our lives. The most difficult part of sharing our lives with an animal companion is often dealing with their departure.

When a beloved animal companion is dying, it is easy to be overwhelmed with feelings of grief and confusion.

Although we know death is an inevitable part of life, there is really no way to adequately prepare ourselves for the passing of a loved one, whether human or animal.

Yet, if we choose to be mindful, even in their passing, we will discover that our animal friend continues to teach us precious lessons about love, trust and living in the moment.

There are several things we can do to assist our friend through the dying process. Being physically and consciously present with the process as it unfolds, allows the animal to feel comforted and free to move on at the appropriate moment.

Great flexibility and courage is needed on our part, as the animal may alternate between rallying for some days and suddenly taking a turn for the worse.

What To Expect
When death is near, the sense of smell is the first to fail, followed by taste, sight and lastly hearing. Do not force her to eat or drink. The body is beginning a process of shutting down, which will end when all of the systems cease to function. In the meantime, the circulation of the blood to the extremities is decreasing and she will probably want to be covered with a blanket.

You will notice that she is sleeping more and may become restless from time to time. Remember to continue to speak to her soothingly to calm her.

Her breathing may change and she may want to be gently repositioned so that she will be more comfortable. If she is no longer drinking fluids, you can squirt a little water in her mouth to keep it moist.

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