In the years I have been visiting homes for in home euthanasia, the part that warms me the most is learning what pets are eating for their last meals. I love asking people- what did he eat this week? Did she get anything special last night for supper? In our world, lots of people show love with food. We always include our fuzzy family members in these special m

oments (even with the vet says, “he’s chubby”!)  When food is an expression of love, we pay attention to the things our loved ones get excited about, the flavors they crave and the things that get their attention for treats and snacks.

Sometimes this can be bittersweet when, towards the end, that is all we can get our aged and ailing pets to eat. We give them what they want gladly and mourn that they aren’t as excited for their regular meals as they once were- yet another signal that the choice to euthanize is the right one, even if it’s hard.

When I coach people what to expect on the day that I’ll be coming to the house, I always recommend having some extra yummy high value treats ready. The reason is, that when I give the sedation injection, I like for the pet to be distracted and as happy as possible. What could be better than an entire pint of ice cream all to yourself, to lick and lick as you please? Or cut up pieces of juicy steak, only the finest cut? Or how about an entire party pizza, just for you? I love seeing what people pick for their charcuterie board, and the love they give as they hand feed these goodies to their pet. There are tears of sadness but they are always mixed with laughter watching their best friend really enjoy his favorite goodies (or, even chocolate- the forbidden fruit!) A delicious treat always makes this transition into sleepy sedation a more peaceful one- for everyone involved.

What would you want for your last snack? What would you pick for your best friend to eat on their last day?