10 Ways to Make Your Pet’s Last Days Their Happiest

I was told my dog Tillie had three weeks to live, tops. I was devastated. 

She hadn’t always lived with kind people, so I wanted her to go to her final rest knowing what it was to be loved. 

I put my heartache aside and focused on her happiness. 

Being a Labrador retriever, there was nothing – nothing – she loved more than chasing a tennis ball. After learning her days were numbered, I vowed to take her to the park to play every single day. And I did. 

But one day, weather got in the way. 

During a torrential rain storm, I called a local pet training facility and asked if I could rent a room for two hours. I explained why and they were quick to agree. 

While the rain drummed against the windows, Tillie bounded about the wide, gym-like room, lost in the ecstasy only a dog with a ball can know. 

Naturally we want our pet’s last days to be as happy and comfortable as possible.

Here are 5 doting ways you can see your animal friend to the other side.  
But First…
Check with your vet to see what, if anything, could make your pet uncomfortable. For example, long walks or extended play could cause pain, as could certain foods. 

People, Places and Things

1. People. Arrange for your pet to interface with their favorite people and animals: a visit from Grandma, a doggy play date. 
2. Places. Take your pet to their favorite places, like hiking trails, dog parks, and the beach. 
3. Things. Surround your pet with their favorite toys and blankets, and maybe take them to a local pet store to choose a new one. 

No-Holds-Barred Pampering
If there was ever a time to spoil your pet rotten, this is it. 

1. Be a Player. We’re often too busy to play with our pets as much as they’d like. Make fun and games a priority. 
2. Snuggle Up. If your pet is a glutton for affection, pour on the sugar. Give lots of cuddles, belly rubs and back scratches. 
3. World Class Accommodations. We can soften the impact of many ailments with:

• Ramps
• Raised food bowls 
• Pet strollers
• Pee pads and diapers
• Sweaters
• Lift harnesses, slings, and pet wheelchairs
• Compression garments and braces
  
  

As always, ask your vet if these accommodations are right for your pet. 

​Along for the Ride.
If you have a dog who loves being in the car, take them along for the ride as often as possible – and roll the widow down enough for them to stick out that happy head and relish the breeze.

1. Well, Spa-Dee-Da. Pet massage and Reiki (a form of “hands-on” healing) are available to pets. Search locally for a practitioner, or learn how to massage your pet at home. Even under normal circumstances these practices are relaxing, but they can also bring relief to a pet in discomfort or pain. Be sure to get the go-ahead from your vet. 
2. Bedtime Bliss. Amp up the comfy factor in your pet’s bed with added cushions or blankets.  
3. Let’s Eat! As long as your vet hasn’t recommended dietary restrictions for your pet, indulge them in their favorite foods (did somebody say “bacon”?). Just keep in mind that overindulgence can make even a healthy pet feel sick, and some human foods are toxic to animals. 

​We can’t keep them forever, and it stinks. Big time. But we can keep them as comfortable as possible, and even keep them happy through their final days. With every little thing we do, they understand – in their own way – that they are loved.

​CONTENT WRITER, BARKTIQUE + MEOW

Kim Brittingham

Kim Brittingham is a content writer for Barktique + Meow, animal lover, and history buff residing at the Jersey Shore. She is the author of Read My Hips (Three Rivers Press/Random House, 2011) and Write That Memoir Right Now (Blackstone, 2013). She's a willing servant to a rescued miniature poodle named Clarice.