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Tips on how to be professionally supportive when a client's dog passes away?

Hi everyone. I know this isn't so much a question but am looking for a little fellow-dog-lover support. I've gone through the excruciating pain of losing my own dogs, but today I had one of my repeat pups pass away unexpectedly. I wasn't present when it happened - though I just saw her last night. I don't want to smother the owner, as I know she is grieving big time. I've become very connected with the dog, seeing her daily for a few months and I have been crying most of the afternoon. I want to send the owner a condolence card and some flowers but I don't even know if that is appropriate or overstepping. I've never had a client's pet die before and it feels absolutely awful. It's tough to know how to be supportive without being the slightest bit intrusive. Know how to grieve the loss yourself without interfering. Perhaps I am so sensitive because it's not been that long ago that I lost my soul mate dogs. I think this baby girl was the owner's soulmate dog. It's difficult to know what to say; you wouldn't think it would be since I've been there myself more than once. There is still another dog of the owner's that I will be caring for, which I am so glad about. I know pets can mourn such losses also. It's a sad day all the way around. Another wonderful canine friend left the world today, much much too soon.

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As a pet owner that has gone through this kind of loss, what you would want? I would not think it intrusive for someone that cared for my pup to acknowledge the loss, in fact I would be heartbroken if they didn't reach out. A framed pic, donation to a cause, flowers, a card, etc... all very nice and great ideas. But first, right now, if you haven't already, give them a call or text to let them know you are sharing their sadness. From experience, I can tell you that it will mean a lot.

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What I have done (and I am currently in the process of putting this together) is printed out 5-10 good pictures of the pup from past bookings from CVS or wherever. I then get a cheap but nice frame from Walmart that displays 3 or so photos. I pick some nice ones to put in the frame and then put the rest in an envelope for the owner to switch them out or do whatever with. If the owner has other pets and I eventually return to the house, I usually see the frame displayed somewhere. It’s a nice little touch for them to keep the image of their dog alive.

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this is so wonderful, Krystal. Such a nice gesture.

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I am sorry to hear of both your clients loss along with the loss of your pet. Our pets become such a huge part of our families that it never is gets easy when we have to say goodbye. My thoughts and prays are with you both!

As for your question.... No, I think you sending Flowers and a card is very sweet and not over stepping your boundaries at all.

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Losing a pet is never easy if its your own or a client as we love them all. What I have done in the past was give the client a condolence card and make a small donation in the dogs name to a local animal rescue group or animal shelter. This token tells the client you care for their loss and also help other animals in need. Sorry for your loss.