How veterinary nurses can support clients through pet bereavement

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The veterinary nursing role has evolved substantially, with a wide variety of CPD opportunities available to further develop skills for us to utilise in practice. One such opportunity is to become a pet bereavement advisor and emotionally support clients throughout the process of saying “goodbye” to their pet. It has long been a trend that pets are thought to be part of the family, suggesting losing a pet can be likened to losing a family member. The RVN can play a key role in supporting the client through this difficult time by helping prepare them and keeping the communication line open after the euthanasia.

Keywords: :

• veterinary
• nurse
• veterinary nurse
• pet bereavement
• euthanasia
• emotional support
• grieving

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Beth Lee

Beth Lee BSc (Hons) RVN

Beth graduated from Harper Adams University in 2019 with a BSc (Hons) degree in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management. She now works in a small animal, first opinion practice in Derbyshire – the same practice she trained with. Her key interests are in-patient care and consulting and she enjoys continually learning new skills to be able to offer new clinics within practice. Outside of work, Beth enjoy travelling, going to the gym and reading. Sadly, she has just lost her only pet, Miesha. This opened her eyes to just how important providing a pet bereavement service is.

Email: [email protected]