Disclaimer: This article discusses distressing topics about grief and death. Reader discretion is advised.

As we age, the companionship of a pet can become an integral part of our daily lives. They're not just animals; they're family members who share in our joys and comfort us in our sorrows. But with this deep bond comes the inevitable heartache of having to make tough decisions when our beloved pets grow old or fall ill. It's a situation that many of us dread, and it raises the difficult question: when is it the right time to say goodbye?

Jodie Oldaker and Ashley Pinder, a couple who chose the companionship of golden retrievers over having children, found themselves facing this very dilemma. Their dogs, Harvey, Kippa, and Taiter, were more than pets; they were like their children, constants in their lives. When Harvey and Kippa's health began to decline, the couple struggled with the decision of when to euthanize. It's a decision that many pet owners grapple with, often feeling unprepared until the moment is upon them.


To navigate this emotional process, Oldaker and Pinder sought the guidance of Nikki Catley, a pet bereavement facilitator with 30 years of experience in supporting vets and pet owners through end-of-life decisions and grief support. Catley's role is to help pet owners assess whether their furry loved ones are truly living or merely existing, as she believes there's a significant difference between the two.


Catley's frustration with oversimplified advice, such as the notion that eating and drinking are the sole indicators of a pet's well-being, led her to develop a more comprehensive approach. She uses a handbook with a scoring system that evaluates various criteria, including mobility, happiness, hydration, and appetite. Her support extends beyond the decision-making process to helping owners cope with pet loss and bereavement, acknowledging that society often fails to recognize the depth of grief associated with losing a pet.


The demand for Catley's services is on the rise, reflecting a societal shift where pets are increasingly seen as central family members, especially among those who choose not to have children or whose children have grown up and moved out. The bond between a pet and its owner can be profound, and the grief felt when that bond is broken is often as intense as the loss of a human loved one.

In Australia, where about 70 percent of households own pets, the emotional investment in these animals is significant. In 2022, households spent over $33 billion on pet services and products, with food accounting for half of the expenditure. Yet, despite this financial commitment, many pet owners still feel embarrassed about mourning the death of their pet, as if their grief is somehow less valid.

Catley's work includes addressing this stigma and giving pet owners permission to grieve. She organized a pet memorial service in Ballarat, where more than 100 pet owners gathered to remember and pay tribute to their late companions. Such events highlight the collective experience of pet loss and the need for communal support.


For our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, we understand that the topic of pet euthanasia is sensitive and deeply personal. If you're facing this tough decision, consider seeking the help of a pet bereavement facilitator like Nikki Catley. They can provide you with the tools to make an informed choice and the support to navigate the grief that follows.
Remember, it's okay to feel the loss deeply and to take the time you need to mourn. Your pet has been a cherished part of your life, and it's natural to feel a profound sense of loss. If you've been through this experience, we invite you to share your story in the comments below. How did you cope with the decision, and what helped you through the grieving process? Your insights could be a source of comfort and guidance to fellow pet owners in our community.