I'm going to be sitting a 16 year old dog who the owner has said is in his end stages of life. I think she understands that it is very possible he could pass but if that were the case, what would I do?
The owner also will be unreachable during the stay.
In 2015, I asked Rover what happens if a senior dog passes away or health starts going that way due to pre-existing condition or natural causes? I also noted many of the dogs don't have carriers and asked is there any assistance or service that handles transport?
Rover Support replied: What I would suggest is that if you do take on a stay like that, that you get a plan in place with the owners and have a back up plan. I know that pet taxis do exist, research in your area to see what options might be available. Of course have the info on hand of the vet closest to you. Always have these kinds of backup solutions in case of a situation like this occurs and contact info for the owner and an emergency contact for the owners. Also have the owner's vet info too!
I would ask the owner. It may be an awkward conversation, but I think if you phrase it as what would they like you to do if the dog gets sick/worse during your stay. Is there a cap on vet expenses, or an alternative contact you could reach while they're gone? If I'm going to be unreachable, I always leave a contact number for my parents or a close friend, so if any questions come up during the stay at least the sitter has someone to call for advice. I'm sure the owner has considered the possibility that the dog could pass away while in your care, so your question shouldn't be surprising.
I'm currently sitting a senior dog and as the owner dropped him off, he mentioned that should the dog get sick/start to decline while they are gone (2 weeks) to not pursue any life saving treatments and peacefully end his life. He also requested that I not call unless I really felt I needed to, as it would just upset his wife. My own dog is also a super senior, and I know I wouldn't want anyone spending thousands of dollars to keep him alive, so I do understand where the owner was coming from, but I personally would want to be notified and would tell my sitter that. Thankfully the dog is doing just fine 1 week into his visit! But should he start to decline, I plan to follow my gut and do what is best for the dog. He goes to the same vet my dog does, so I feel better knowing the staff there and that they won't pressure me or make me feel guilty for making a hard decision about an older dog. I will say, we didn't discuss what to do with the body if the dog passes away...I guess I hope the vet can hold it until the owner returns? I didn't even consider it until I read your question, but hopefully I never have to deal with it!
I would have a sensitive, but honest conversation with the owners about what they want you to do if the pet should pass on.
What vet should be called? Do the owners want you to try to contact them? If so, how? Do they want the pet to be kept somewhere until their return? Should you have the pet buried/cremated/otherwise disposed of?
If you feel comfortable, you may wish to ask the owners to leave instructions, much as you would ask for vet information.
I have an ancient dog, too, and I am very frank any time he goes to stay with ANYONE. I let them know that I understand he may pass over the rainbow bridge at any time and I won't hold them responsible in any way. From now on I will also ask them to contact me if that should happen.
I know this is an old one, but a word of advice - never talk about how to dispose of the poor dog’s body while they are still breathing. My otherwise wonderful vet did this and it made things so much worse. When a doggy is on their way out you are on your last ebb of psychological strength. There is only one way to get through it and that’s one step at a time.
How to do this - I don’t know. Have the vet store the body till the owner can be informed? Anything. Anything but what I went through. There she was with the purple syringe, my dog about to breath his last, me telling him not to worry I’m here and it’ll all be over very soon - trying to stay calm for him and stroking his fur and she starts talking to my husband about what to do with his body??? I got angry and shooed them away telling them not to do that in front of him. But I meant me. The vet says they do this or else people sometimes just leave the dog there and they never know what to do with the body, but there has to be a better way.
I think people should be prepared no matter what the circumstance a super senior dog can go at any time and you must have preparations just like you would a will with people. You don't want charges because you can't make a decision at that moment. It will cost you money and your heart.