how to prepare my children when losing a family pet

[GeorgiaT2468]

Hiya,

First experience in losing a family pet. Had my dog 10 years and she's got to be put down due to having cancer..

I have children and I need to know how to explain to them and prepare them for when she's gone. Eldest 2 are 5.5 and 2.5. They adore their doggy.

Any advice on this would be very much appreciated, thank you xx

[Miloarmadillo1]

Sorry about your dog
What's the timeframe for the decision? I'd start talking to them about how the dog is old and poorly, and the vet can't make her better. Avoid the phrase "put to sleep" as it can make some children fearful of sleeping or of anaesthetics. I wouldn't have them there when the dog is euthanased if you can avoid it. Having a funeral can be helpful, either burial, or cremation with return of ashes to scatter or bury, or bury collar, photo, pictures etc. Expect lots of questions for some time after, small children need to 'rehearse' what happened to process it - tough on you if you are grieving for an old friend.

[kittyvet]

The blue cross have good advice for children and pet bereavement on their website. There is a good children's book called 'goodbye mog'. Sorry about your dog :(