VNJ Articlesbereavementclientcommunicationdeatheuthanasiagriefsupport
2 October 2025
How VNs can support owners before, during and after the euthanasia of their pet
by Carrie Kearns ACC Dip PBC, VCA, Cert Pet Bereavement BC, Adv Dip BCT. Carrie is a pet bereavement counsellor who has always had a passion for supporting clients before and after loss. Carrie tutors the Pet Bereavement CPD for Innovet CPD Training. Her interests include thanatology and photography.
Tracey Woods, RVN, AVN, Dip Couns. Tracey is a pet bereavement counsellor and veterinary nurse who runs Pet Eden Grief Counselling for Pet Parents, a service for pet owners in Australia. Tracey enjoys Pilates and belly dancing. She volunteers for the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia and organises CPD locally and nationally.
ABSTRACT This article explores how veterinary nurses (VNs) can effectively support pet owners before, during and after the euthanasia of their pets. It discusses the etymology of ‘euthanasia’ and its meaning as a ‘good death’, and acknowledges the emotional and procedural complexities involved in achieving this aim. The authors highlight the importance of managing the expectations of owners, understanding their individual needs and preparing the clinical environment, as well as the pet and their owner, for the procedure. Recommendations include offering euthanasia at home, providing privacy and sensory support in the practice, and arranging pre-visit sedation for anxious pets. Additional considerations include sedation prior to euthanasia, prioritising the comfort of the patient and owner, offering aftercare services such as keepsakes and ensuring clear communication with pet owners. By offering tailored information, emotional reassurance and practical support, VNs can help owners process grief as well as ensuring a dignified experience for their pets. The article emphasises the pivotal role of VNs in facilitating compassionate end-of-life care and fostering positive memories for bereaved families.
Keywords euthanasia, death, grief, trauma, bereavement, support, client, communication
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56496/XOIK6835
To cite this article: Kearns, C., and Woods, T. (2025) How VNs can support owners before, during and after the euthanasia of their pet. VNJ 40(5) pp46-50. DOI: https://doi.org/10.56496/XOIK6835
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