Saying goodbye to a beloved dog is one of the hardest things we face as pet owners. They give us unconditional love for years, and when the time comes to make decisions about their comfort and dignity, it can feel overwhelming.
How to know it's time
Dogs are experts at hiding pain. But as they age, there are signs to watch for:
They stop enjoying the things they once loved
Pain or illness becomes hard to manage
They struggle with basic tasks like eating or walking
Good days become fewer and farther between
If you’re constantly wondering whether they’re still happy, that may be the sign you’re looking for. Euthanasia isn’t giving up; it’s giving peace when life becomes more struggle than joy.
Why you might feel relieved
After saying goodbye, some people feel a quiet relief. No more medication routines. No more watching them suffer. That relief can feel wrong, but it’s not. You were carrying a heavy emotional load. Feeling lighter is part of the healing. It doesn’t mean you didn’t love them. It means you cared deeply.
Grieve without shame
You gave your dog a good life and a loving goodbye. Let yourself grieve in whatever way feels right. Talk about them, remember them, and be kind to yourself. The love you shared is still there. It always will be.
Book one last photoshoot: I call this one the rainbow bridge session
Before you say goodbye, consider giving yourself one last gift: a photoshoot with your dog. It’s a way to honor their life, capture the bond you share, and create a beautiful memory to hold onto. Even if your dog is older or sick, those final images often become the most meaningful.
Because I know how difficult it is to make this decision, I offer gentle, in-home or outdoor sessions just for this stage of life.