Death Work for Pets
Can I hire a death worker to help with a pet’s death?
OMG ABSOLUTELY YES.
Not every death worker is super well-versed in needs for all kinds of pets, so ask the people you’re interested in working with if they’re open to it. I, for one, am not well-practiced in assisting others closely through pet death as a death worker, but have been through many myself and supported friends. I would LOVE to help others through these special transitions.
What can a death worker even do to help with a pet death?
Assess basic needs and help you find any comfort adjustments for your pet. Sometimes we can get so used to our routine in our homes with our families that we’re not aware of things that can be adjusted with minimal effort for a HUGE effect.
Call around and talk to vets or pet cremation facilities to manage your pet’s healthcare and aftercare needs. Sometimes you may want or need a second opinion or you can even find a vet who will come to your home for the final procedure.
Help you manage other daily tasks so you can spend quality time with your pet.
Gather ritual materials and set a sacred space for any memorials or rituals.
Help plan a last a great day in a way that is not stressful for your pet.
Help you document your gratitudes, special moments, and any other thoughts during this transition that can so often get swept away with time.
Help you collect and organize all your tangible memories to keep safe.
Help you decide on a remembrance project — a special fire hydrant? A special blanket? A special treat? A bench at the park? It all depends on the personality of your pet.
Remind you that your feelings are valid and honor your relationship with your pet and their place in your life.
Anything we do for those human clients, we can help you for your pets. All life is sacred.
Do I have to wait until my pet is sick?
NO!
Please don’t wait until your pet is sick. One session with a death worker can help you understand how many more choices you truly have in honoring the sacredness of your pet’s life.
Get started now and as your pets age, you can make sure you have the proper arrangements and decisions made for when the time comes.
It will come. No one lives forever. Let’s do this in a way that honors them. Your pets are not an afterthought. They are your family.
