When your pet dies, first confirm that they have passed away by checking for signs like no heartbeat or breathing. Afterward, contact your vet to discuss next steps and options for handling their remains. 

You can choose cremation, burial, or a memorial service depending on your preference. Remember to handle your pet’s body gently and keep them cool if you need to wait before taking further action. It’s okay to grieve and seek support during this difficult time.

What To Do If My Pet Dies At Home

Losing a beloved pet is an emotionally challenging experience. Pets are often cherished members of the family, and their death leaves an emptiness. If you find yourself in this situation, there are certain steps you can take to handle the situation with care and respect. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to take if your pet dies at home, including how to confirm their passing, what to do with their remains, and what options you have for the next steps. We will also answer frequently asked questions about handling a pet’s death.

Ensure Your Pet is Deceased

The first step when you suspect that your pet has passed away is to ensure they are indeed deceased. Sometimes, pets may appear lifeless but could still be alive. Check for the following signs:

• No Heartbeat – Place your hand on their chest or neck to feel for a heartbeat.
• No Breathing – Look at your pet’s chest to see if it rises and falls.
• No Reflexes – Gently tap their eyes or touch their paw to see if they respond.
• If you’re uncertain, contact your veterinarian to confirm.

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Call Your Vet

Once you’re certain that your pet has passed away, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can provide advice on the next steps and might help with euthanasia if your pet passed unexpectedly. 

Your vet can guide you through the process of caring for your pet’s body, whether they need to arrange for removal or if you plan to handle the remains yourself.

Consider Your Options for Handling Your Pet’s Remains

There are several ways to handle your pet’s remains, depending on your personal preferences, local regulations, and the level of emotional closure you need. Here are your main options:

• Home Burial – If permitted in your area, you can bury your pet at home. Ensure the grave is at least 3-4 feet deep to prevent other animals from disturbing the remains. Also, check for local ordinances to confirm this is legal in your area.
  
• Cremation – Many veterinary offices or pet hospitals offer cremation services. You can either opt for individual or communal cremation. With individual cremation, you may receive your pet’s ashes, while communal cremation means the ashes will not be returned.
  
• Pet Memorial Services – You may want to preserve your pet’s memory by having a paw print, fur clippings, or a custom memorial made. Memorial services can offer options like jewelry or urns.
  
• Donation – Some people choose to donate their pet’s body to veterinary schools for research or educational purposes.
  

Contact PCS Pet Cremation Services

If you’re uncertain about how to handle your pet’s remains, contacting a Pet Cremation Service (PCS) might be the right choice. They specialize in aftercare for pets and offer a variety of services, including cremation, burial, and memorials. 

Many PCS providers will pick up your pet’s body from your home or veterinarian, offering convenience and comfort during an emotional time.

Place Your Pet on a Towel or Blanket

Before taking any further steps, gently place your pet on a soft towel or blanket. This helps to preserve the body and makes handling easier. 

If you are planning on burying your pet or transporting them, wrapping them in a towel or blanket makes the process more respectful and humane.

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Position Your Pet

When handling your pet’s body, it’s important to do so with respect and care. Gently position your pet’s body in a peaceful and natural pose, such as curling them into a resting position. 

This can help you feel more at ease, and it offers a sense of closure. If you plan to transport them to a cremation service or vet, place them in a secure, covered container or carrier.

Let Other Pets Smell Your Deceased Pet

If you have other pets at home, it can be beneficial to allow them to see and smell the deceased pet. Pets often grieve, and allowing them to understand the situation can help them process the loss. 

This can be especially important for dogs and cats, who rely on scent to navigate the world around them. Monitor your remaining pets for signs of distress and provide them with extra attention during this time.

Keep Your Pet’s Body Cool

If you’re unable to immediately handle your pet’s remains, it’s important to keep their body cool. This helps to prevent decomposition and keeps them in better condition for longer. You can place the pet’s body in a cool area, but avoid freezing it as this may damage the body. 

If possible, place ice packs around the body, but ensure the body is wrapped in a towel or blanket to avoid direct contact with ice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If My Pet Is Dead?

Check for signs like no heartbeat, no breathing, and lack of reflexes. If you’re unsure, contact your veterinarian.

Can I Bury My Pet at Home?

This depends on your local regulations. Check with local authorities to see if home burial is permitted in your area.

What Should I Do If My Pet Dies in the Middle of the Night?

If it’s after hours, contact your veterinarian’s emergency service or a pet cremation service that offers 24/7 support.

Can I Get My Pet’s Ashes After Cremation?

Yes, if you opt for individual cremation, you can often get your pet’s ashes returned to you.

How Can I Help My Other Pets Deal with the Loss?

Give your other pets extra attention and allow them to see and smell the deceased pet. Monitor their behavior and offer comfort.

Conclusion

The loss of a pet is one of the hardest experiences many pet owners go through. During this challenging time, knowing what to do next can help alleviate some stress and provide clarity. From confirming that your pet has passed to deciding how to handle their remains, 

It’s important to make decisions that feel right for you and your family. Remember to give yourself time to grieve, and lean on friends, family, or professional pet loss support groups for comfort. Losing a pet is a difficult process, but treating their remains with respect and care can help you honor their memory and find some peace in the aftermath.