Planning Ahead for the Pets You Love

Have you ever stopped to wonder what would happen to your beloved pet if you became seriously ill, entered hospice, moved into long-term care, or passed away?

It is a hard question. But for the animals who depend on us, it is an important one.

Pets are family. They know our voices, our routines, our footsteps, and our love. Yet when end-of-life plans are made, pets are often forgotten until a crisis happens.

And when there is no plan, the result can be heartbreaking.

Butters was a tiny 4.5-pound senior dachshund who ended up in a high-risk shelter after his owner died. He had no name, no story, and almost no chance. At 12 years old, with health issues and no one coming for him, he was placed on the euthanasia list.

Thankfully, Butters was rescued — and he came into my life. I was blessed to give him five more years of love, safety, warmth, and home. He became my heart dog, my soul dog, and I still miss him every single day.

Ruby had spent 15 years as the beloved companion of a man who adored her. When her daddy was dying from cancer, his family did not want her. They brought her to our veterinarian’s office to have her euthanized.

The vet called us.

Ruby came home with us, and for 11 months, she was loved, cared for, and safe. She never got to see her daddy again before he passed, but I like to believe that when Ruby’s time came, he was waiting for her. After 11 short months with us, Ruby went to be with her daddy again.

Izzy was our tiny 15-year-old teacup Yorkie. Her mom died, and the family did not want her. At 15 years old, this little dog was suddenly alone, with no one prepared to care for her.

Izzy came to live with us for just 11 short months before she joined her mom again. But in those months, she was held. She was safe. She mattered. She was loved.

These stories are painful, but they are not rare.

Without a plan, beloved pets can be surrendered, passed from person to person, left confused, or placed in shelters when they are old, grieving, frightened, or medically fragile.

Planning ahead is not morbid.
It is love.

At Serinity, I help individuals and families think through what will happen to their pets if they can no longer care for them. Together, we can talk about trusted caregivers, daily routines, medications, veterinary care, emergency contacts, comfort needs, and written instructions for the animals who depend on you.

Your pet has loved you faithfully.

A plan helps make sure that love continues.