One of the most common questions I hear from families is, "Should my other dog or cat be present during an in-home pet euthanasia?"

The simple answer is that there isn't a single right or wrong approach.

Every pet is different. Every family is different. My role is to help you decide what feels most appropriate for your situation.

This week I helped two families whose experiences perfectly demonstrate why there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer.

Every Situation Is Different

Both of the pets I helped were dogs who shared their homes with another dog. They weren't littermates or even genetically related, but they had spent their lives together and were very much companions.

Whenever I arrive at a home and notice another pet, it's one of the conversations we always have.

Should they be present?

Should they stay in another room?

Should they have the opportunity to say goodbye afterwards?

The answer depends entirely on the personalities of the pets involved.

A Calm Goodbye

The first patient was a beautiful little white fluffy dog who was living with heart failure.

Her little companion was another small white dog who quietly sat nearby on a dog bed while Mum and Dad held her paws.

The whole environment was calm, peaceful and gentle.

Having her companion present simply felt right.

She remained relaxed throughout the appointment, and her little friend quietly stayed close by.

When Another Pet Is Too Excited

The second family had a very different situation.

When I arrived, I was greeted by an energetic 11-month-old Boxer who was incredibly excited to have a visitor.

He was beautifully trained and very friendly, but like many young Boxers, his excitement levels were through the roof.

I spent some time getting to know him and hoped he would settle, but he remained full of energy.

Together with his family, we decided it would be kinder for him to wait outside on the balcony during his brother's final moments.

After his brother had peacefully passed away, we invited him back inside.

By then he was much calmer and was able to spend some quiet time with his companion.

For this family, that felt like the right decision.

Do Dogs and Cats Grieve?

In my experience, they absolutely do.

Their grief may look different from ours, but they certainly notice the absence of a companion they've shared their lives with.

Whenever it's appropriate, I believe allowing another pet the opportunity to see and smell their companion after they have passed away can be beneficial.

It helps them understand that something has changed, rather than simply wondering where their friend has gone.

Every situation is different, but it's something we will always discuss together before the appointment.

Supporting Your Remaining Pet After the Loss

Although I'm not a psychologist, I have spent many years working with animals and supporting families through end-of-life care.

One thing I've learned is that our pets are incredibly aware of our emotions.

Dogs, in particular, often try to comfort us when we're upset.

While it's important to allow yourself to grieve, it's equally important to maintain as much normal routine as possible for your remaining pet.

Continue going for daily walks.

Keep feeding times the same.

Continue playing with their favourite toys.

Routine provides reassurance during a time of change.

One lovely suggestion I've heard for dogs is to take them to Petbarn and allow them to choose their own toy or treat. Simply loosen your grip on the lead and let them sniff. Whatever they choose first is theirs.

It's a small gesture, but it can provide a positive distraction for both you and your dog.

There Is No Right or Wrong Answer

Whether another pet should be present during an in-home euthanasia depends on many factors, including their personality, age, temperament and relationship with the pet who is passing away.

There isn't a black-and-white answer.

Every family is unique, and every goodbye is different.

When we speak before your appointment, we'll talk through your individual circumstances together. I'll explain the options, share what has worked well for other families, and help you make the decision that feels right for your pets and your family.

My goal is always the same—to create a peaceful, respectful and compassionate goodbye for every pet while supporting the people, and the animals, who love them most.