STOP SCROLLING: 7 Things to Do When Your Dog's Time Is Almost Up—Read This Before It's Too Late

If you’ve been home through covid, spending every minute with your dog, you may find that when it’s time to return to work, he’s picked up some separation issues.

From Dr. Mary Burch, PhD, CAAB

If your dog is nearing the end, these tender tips from Tory Duchene—a pet grief specialist and founder of Empawthy Pet—can help you move through this hard stretch with as much grace and love as possible.

7 Things You Should Do As Your Dog Nears the End of Their Life

1. Creature Comforts. Building a comfy space matters more than ever now. An electric heating pad or warmed blanket on an orthopedic bed can ease aching joints. If your dog struggles to get around, grab ramps or pet stairs so they can reach their favourite spot. Well-placed rugs help them move safely and skip the slips. If they can't climb to your bed anymore, make a cozy, warm nook where you can rest beside them. Sharing quiet time in a spot they love brings deep comfort to you both.

Sharing quiet moments in a space they love can bring immense comfort to you both.

2. Ease Their Pain. Sadly, ache and discomfort often come with this stage, but the good news is it can be managed with the right care. Talk with your vet about pain plans tailored to your dog. Look into hospice and palliative care vets, many of whom do house calls, letting your dog get expert care in familiar surroundings. Some offer alternatives like acupuncture, laser therapy, and other holistic options to boost comfort and quality of life. Thoughtful pain care is one of the greatest gifts you can give your dog.

Exercise. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before you leave, so he can rest comfortably while you’re out.

3. Make a Bucket List. Build a gentle 'bucket list' around your dog's current abilities and likes. Let your dog set the pace! If they've got energy, take a car ride to their favourite park or nearby beach. Stop on the way for a cheeseburger or 'puppuccino.' If they'd rather rest, make a special home-cooked, dog-safe meal and curl up for cuddles and a movie night. The aim isn't to cram in adventures, but to make special moments and memories.

The goal isn't to pack in adventures, but to create special moments and memories.

4. Prepare For a Peaceful Goodbye. One of the kindest moves you can make is to plan your dog's transition. A plan now can calm the panic later. Track daily wellness using the Quality of Life scale online or via your vet. Keep a journal of changes in their wellbeing and good vs bad days. Share it with your vet to help decide before a crisis hits. Many families find comfort having a mobile vet come home to help their dog transition peacefully through at-home euthanasia in a familiar, safe place with family around. It eases fear for pets who hate the clinic. A plan and a list of trusted providers bring peace of mind when emotions run high.

Veterinarian. If your dog’s separation issues are severe and don’t ease quickly, talk with your vet about the problem.

Keep your pup busy and engaged while home alone with these boredom-buster toys!