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Painting by Georgie Gandolf,
purchased by Teresa Wagner
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Class Description
As animal caretakers we will almost certainly be faced at some point with decisions regarding the care of an ailing companion. Whether due to aging, chronic illness, acute injury or tragic cases of severe behavior problems most of us will, at some point, be presented with euthanasia as an option in the care of our companion animals.
The death of a beloved companion animal is often fraught with questions and difficult decisions regarding the care of our cherished friend. For many of us, the mere thought of ever losing our beloved companions can be so traumatic that we refuse to even consider the possibility. Our own fears of death and loss can impact our ability to make the best choices for the animals in our care. Fear of the unknown can be a tremendous source of grief and can lead us to make decisions surrounding our animals' dying that we later regret. By facing our fears and questions before we are confronted with the trauma of an ailing loved one, we can better consider the choices and decisions we may need to make and take the time to develop plans or make changes that can lessen the sense of chaos and confusion and make our parting a time of shared love and connection.
In the right time and circumstances, providing a peaceful release for an ailing companion through euthanasia can be a powerful demonstration of love and respect. Education about the process of euthanasia can help us prevent surprises and minimize discomfort, stress or shock that can be part of the experience for humans saying goodbye to their animal companions. Advanced planning and consideration of our own questions, concerns, fears and beliefs about euthanasia can help us to make more informed decisions and create the best death experience possible for our animals. If we are able to move past our own fears euthanasia can become a sacred act and a time of powerful connection.
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Image by Georgia Gandolf. Used with permission and gratitude.
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This course will focus on the physical process of death as it relates to euthanasia in companion animals. We will evaluate ways of thinking about and evaluating quality of life and other end of life issues. We will look at the process of euthanasia and physical death and consider ways to provide the best process possible for our companions. We will discuss ways to help guide a sometimes clinical process to support our relationship with our animals at this sacred time.
While any discussion of death or dying will necessarily touch on our emotional and spiritual needs at this time, this course will focus primarily on the practical physical considerations regarding euthanasia with the goal of helping participants become more comfortable evaluating the options for their own animals and supporting clients or others in making end of life decisions for their companion animals.
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RELATED BOOKS
Animals and the Afterlife: This book is a treasure. I've recommended it to many, many clients over the years who continue to rave about it-how the true stories bring greater understanding about death, euthanasia, life after death for animals, and comfort to their hearts at the time of loss of their pets. I hope it will do the same for you. 
Legacies of Love--A Gentle Guide to Healing From the Loss of Your Animal Loved One: Includes a section on the challenges of considering the choice of euthanasia. This audio book will help you understand your grief and explore many strategies to both cope with and heal your grief, including strengthening your sense of connection with the spirit of your animal loved one.
Animals in Spirit: How do we say goodbye when it's time for our beloved animal companions to pass? Where do animal souls go when they leave Earth, and how can we help them transition to the other side? |
RELATED CLASSES available ON DEMAND
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