Sympathy cards/Bereavement support pack

Along with the administration tasks, we recommend that the practice sends a condolence or sympathy card. This should be sent on the same day as the euthanasia or the next day at the latest. Leaving all the cards/bereavements packs to be sent at the end of the week can give the impression that the card was an afterthought.

Including information on sources of pet loss demonstrates that even though the pet is no longer under the care of the practice, they still care.

Pet memorials and tributes

Creating a memorial can be a way for your client to honour their pet’s memory. It is easier for vets to take paw prints and fur clippings; especially if there is a chance the pet’s body is frozen prior to the pet’s journey to the crematorium.

Asking every client what support they want in memorialising their pet should be part of your practice’s process. Often it can be too late once the pet arrives at the crematorium; failure to ask your client can undo the good work you and your team have done.