Death and dying are uncomfortable subjects. For some, it stirs up painful memories of past losses. For others, it is a reminder of our mortality or the mortality of those we love.
As we tend to the animals in our care, we will lose patients to death despite our best efforts. Often at these times, we are exposed to the emotions of the families who have loved them. For some, there are dramatic outbursts; for others, emotions will be put on hold for private moments.
As different as people are, so are their reactions. No right or wrong. We must respect and accept the fact that we all grieve and express grief in our own way and in our own time, and we must be there to support our clients through this time.
Often, we’re uncomfortable with client reactions. No one likes seeing someone sad and crying, and we fumble, sometimes, in an attempt to make them feel better. Recognize, first of all, that it’s not possible to make them feel better at that time. With that in mind, there are some things you can do and some things that shouldn't be done during those times of client grief.
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Ø Find a place for quiet
Whatever the situation—a client rushing in with an injured pet or a pet dead on arrival, or an expected euthanasia—find a quiet place for the family. If a comfort room is not available, an exam room is the next best choice. If they need to fill out paperwork, take it with you as you escort them.
Copyright 2009 BowTie Inc.
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