9 Lawton Road Alsager ST7 2AA 01270 882112 30 Crewe Road Sandbach CW11 4NE 01270 767455 A group of 3 Small Animal Veterinary Practices in Staffordshire and Cheshire 12 Friarswood Road Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 2EG 01782 615698 if Deciding when the time is right Every day we make decisions for our pets – what to eat, which collar to wear, when to go for a walk, what to play with. These decisions are made out of love and caring for our furred, feathered or scaly family member, wanting nothing but the best for them as they are unable to make these decisions for themselves. One of the hardest decisions we will ever make is deciding when the time is right to say goodbye to our beloved companion. We purchase or rescue a pet knowing in the back of our minds that the day will eventually come when we will have to let them go, but still nothing can prepare you fully for the enormity of that decision. It is not one to be taken lightly, but with careful consideration and with discussion with friends, family members and your vet. Your vet will never make the decision for you, but will help to guide you to look for signs based on your pet’s health and demeanour and help you to prevent your pet suffering. It is important to remember that suffering does not simply refer to pain, but also to other aspects of your pet’s welfare such as mobility and mental state. Our vets and nurses are here to ensure that you make the right decision for your pet; after all, nobody knows your pet better than you do. Once you are sure that the time is right, we can arrange for your pet to be put to sleep at the surgery or at home, and we always endeavour to make the experience as comfortable and dignified for them as possible. The vet will discuss arrangements for burial or cremation for your pet and if you wish, you can have your pet’s ashes back to scatter or keep. We know that nothing will make this decision easier, but we hope that when the time comes we can help you through the hardest moments and give your pet the send-off they deserve. © County Vets l Links l Vetwebsites