Dogs truly are a man’s best friend. Everyone’s best friend. The ultimate best friend. But sadly, as much as we obviously wish they did, they don’t live as long as us mere humans do.
And often, that means owners end up having to make the sad decision to put their dog to sleep. It’s usually considered the kindest option to pets in pain or if their health has completely deteriorated.
Though that doesn’t make it any easier – it’s a gut-wrenching thing for everyone involved, including the staff at the vets.
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Having to carry out the sad procedure, a vet has issued a heart-breaking plea to owners putting their dog to sleep after seeing those final moments many times.
They shared a post to Reddit, explaining why it's so important to stay with your pet to the end, if you can manage to bear it.
They explained that although they try not to judge, it is 'f***ing depressing to have a dog spending it’s final moments looking for where their owner went'.
The post read: "I feel like it’s the very last comfort you can give your friend, just being there by their side to comfort them.
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"Uggh. We had one recently that hit me hard, I just wish it could have ended differently."
The vet explained that some people believe their canine will just think that they have 'stepped out for a moment', but said they are missing the point.
They continued: "Even if that was the case, they still stress out.
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"Y’all, this dog we euthanised literally tried so hard to walk himself out the front door with his leash after his owners left and continued to cry and stress out until the propofol got him. We did our jobs and gave all the treats and love, but the focus was always, 'where did they go?'
"Say what you want, I just think it’s a bummer that those were his final moments. He was a really good boy and I wish he could have been more relaxed because I think he deserved it."
Other vets shared their views, with one writing: "It might be hard to say goodbye but it's hell for them."
She added: "They already don't like the vet, they're confused, they're scared, they're sad and they're looking for you when they take their last breath.
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"I can try to provide them as much love and comfort as I humanly can but at the end of the day, I'm a stranger to them."
Other pet owners also shared their thoughts, with one person adding: "I held my dog as he passed (at the vet). That moment will always haunt me. But I would do it again if I had the choice."
While another said: "People who ‘choose’ to leave their dog to die alone are absolute scumbags and didn’t deserve that dog."
Many others admitted they were in tears over the post and thanked the vet for their kindness, and everything they do for our beloved pets.
Lucy Devine