Lhe death of an animal is often a tragedy for a child, a family and an elderly person. At a time when the pet has the status of a quasi-human being, discussing the pain surrounding its disappearance is a real subject, which will be addressed ahead of the congress on mourning in La Rochelle, on November 28 in Fouras. Marine Debouchaud, veterinarian in Ciré-d'Aunis, will host the conference. Meet this enthusiast who calls the animals she follows “my patients”.
What status does the pet occupy in the family?
He is totally part of it on a daily basis. The deep and unconditional relationship with the animal combines parenthood, friendship, tenderness, respect and kindness. He is a confidant, a life companion who brings comfort. He is a being in his own right, with his own personality and sensitivity. He was chosen, raised and educated. Then we see him decline and we support him like a little dean.
So what does the death of a pet represent?
Most often, the dog or cat has accompanied its owner for a long time and represents a part of his life. Saying goodbye to your pet means leaving a little of yourself. It's the same thing when you adopt the protégé of a deceased person, his death sounds like a second death of his late master.
In what spirit do the owners who bring you a sick animal arrive?
Every owner has their limit. One will agree to leave with their cat or dog, even if reduced, they are ready to accompany them; the other is not ready to live with an amputated animal for example. Some want to end suffering too early, while treatment is still possible. I adapt and work with my conscience. But I am not capable of euthanizing an animal that can still live comfortably. Otherwise my job loses its meaning.
The death of a pet often signals the beginning of sliding syndrome in the elderly.
Coraline Bertrand
How to deal with owners who are not prepared for the death of their animal?
They're thinking of saving him, so I'm going tactfully. Before any euthanasia, we must talk. Often, people need time to digest the news and say goodbye to their pet. Especially for children, who must understand what is happening.
“The loss of an animal is often the first experience of grief for a child”
Tell us about the children facing this death.
The loss of an animal, a true attachment figure, is often the first experience of mourning for a child. It is painful, especially from the age of 7, because the young person understands that death is part of the cycle of life, including for humans. You have to explain the death in a concrete way, saying that you will no longer see your animal, but that you will remember it as a great friend. The young person is often associated with the ritual which accompanies the departure of an animal, more than with the grandparents' funerals from which he is sometimes, strangely, excluded.
Thibault Toulemonde
Pets help overcome loneliness and provide comfort in an unconditional relationship.
What is the ritual around the death of an animal?
In the event of euthanasia, most owners want to be present. Often they ask to have the body back. Unfortunately, it is not legal, but I understand, because it means wanting to accompany the animal until the end. There are two animal crematoriums in Poitiers and Vendée which allow a real ceremony and the recovery of ashes.
Why are we often embarrassed to talk about the loss of our cat or dog?
For fear of hearing “oh, it’s just an animal.” » However, you must speak without fear, because it is a mourning that concerns people and many people comfort you. The loss of this unique relationship should not be taken lightly, even if it means going to see a psychologist. At the office, we welcome the pain of clients who go home alone, I write them letters afterwards, we even offer to take prints of the cat or dog before their departure.
You are not a veterinarian by chance and you yourself have just lost your Australian Shepherd.
Cirrus was 15 years old, he died of devastating cancer on November 6. He was my shadow, he followed me everywhere and accompanied every stage of my life. I thought about euthanizing him so that he would no longer suffer, it was part of the contract of mutual respect, but he died in my arms, like a gift. I organized a real ceremony for him at the animal crematorium, it was difficult, but beautiful for him. In tribute to him, I posted a publication on Facebook which got me messages like never before.
(1) Presqu'île nursing home in Fouras on November 28 at 6 p.m. Free.
