Should Other Pets Be Present During Euthanasia?
by Metz | Nov 5, 2025 | Educational |
Should Other Pets Be Present During Euthanasia?
When a cherished companion reaches the end of their journey, many families find themselves wondering whether their other pets should be present during the euthanasia process. At Kona’s Loving Paws, we understand that deciding who should be part of this final moment is a deeply personal choice. Whether you wish to create a quiet, intimate goodbye or include all members of your animal family, it’s a decision that deserves gentle reflection, compassion, and care.
Many pet parents have noticed that when one animal passes away, the others may search, wait by the door, or seem a little lost. This is because animals do form attachments and can feel the absence of a companion. Being present during the goodbye can sometimes help them understand what has happened, rather than being left wondering why their friend suddenly disappeared.
The Benefits of Allowing Other Pets To Be Present
For some families, allowing the other pets to be nearby during the euthanasia feels natural. Pets often provide quiet comfort just by being present — a gentle nuzzle, a soft paw, or simply lying close by. Sometimes, it even seems to calm the pet who is passing, as if they know they are surrounded by their pack.
When a Peaceful, Focused Farewell Feels Right
That being said, not every situation is the same. Other families, however, prefer to give all of their focus, love, and attention to the pet they’re saying goodbye to and choose not to have their other pets present during the procedure itself. That choice is just as loving — it allows them to create a calm, intimate space centered solely on the pet’s comfort.
Giving Other Pets a Chance to Say Goodbye
At Kona’s Loving Paws, we understand that each family — and each bond — is different. Regardless of what you choose for the euthanasia itself, we believe it’s important for the other pets in the home to have an opportunity to visit with their companion after they have passed. This quiet time helps surviving pets understand that their family member has gone, allowing them to process their grief with that awareness rather than confusion. We intentionally build this time into our appointments, as we’ve seen how meaningful it can be. Many families have shared that when their remaining pets were not given the chance to see their friend after passing, those pets often spent days or even months searching the house, calling out, or waiting for their beloved companion to return.
A Loving Choice, Either Way
Ultimately, what matters most is creating a peaceful, loving environment for your beloved companion’s final moments. Whether you choose to have your other pets present or nearby, your decision comes from a place of care and compassion, and that love is what truly matters. The heart of it all is that your beloved companion passes surrounded by care, respect, and peace. And whether their furry friends are there in the same room or waiting just outside, the love you share as a family will always remain.
At Kona’s Loving Paws, we’re honored to walk beside families through this meaningful goodbye, offering gentle guidance, patience, and space for everyone — pets included — to find comfort.
