To let 3 year old see dead family pet?

[Whathefisgoingon]

MIL has just had the family dog put down, they have got him home to bury and DP has just called to say he’s collecting DS(3) up from nursery to take him up there to say goodbye.

I said I wasn’t sure it was appropriate and he may be too young, but he said he did some reading and thinks it is important he get to say goodbye. I said he can say goodbye but he’s not witnessing the actual burial.

What does everyone else think?

I should have also added that if you are going to do it make sure you don't use euphemisms like "he's gone to sleep" or "gone away", kids are very literal at that age and you could end up confusing him. Be clear the dog is dead and won't be coming back.

The memory of my dead dog still haunts me three years on, so I wouldn't.

Well, we are here and he is not bothered! We explained he was old and died and we were here to say goodbye. He stroked him then went on to pull out all his toys and is now stomping around with his recorder!

Thought as much! Pleased he's okay OP and sorry about the dog.