A few weeks ago, Dr. Erika Bruner made an appearance on local Vermont radio station WDEV. Here’s the best part of the conversation, have a listen!
Dr. Erika Bruner on WDEV
Pet Loss and the Pandemic
Dr Bruner shares some thoughts on how the stresses we’re dealing with during the COVID-19 pandemic are similar to the stresses of facing the loss of a beloved pet. From Daoist Chinese medicine, the importance of allowing the tree of the heart to be empty so that the birds of the spirits can land. Don’t let fear and sadness rob you of love and connection, whether with humans or critters.
What Exactly Do I Say to Kids at a Home Euthanasia?
In this video, the third in a series on kids and pet loss, Dr. Bruner explains exactly what words and phrases she uses to talk to kids when she comes to their house to euthanize their pet. Clear, simple explanations that avoid using the word “sleep” or other euphemisms are important. Dr. Bruner recommends that you talk to your vet and to your kids beforehand.
The first video in the series is Talking to Kids about Pet Loss
The second video is Should My Kids Be Present When Our Pet Is Euthanized?
Should My Kids Be Present When Our Pet Is Euthanized?
For the first video in this series, please seeTalking to Kids about Pet Loss
For the third video, see What Exactly Do I Say to Kids at a Home Euthanasia?
In this video, the second in a series on kids and pet loss, Dr. Bruner addresses a question that many people ask – should my children be present at the euthanasia of our pet? Dr. Bruner recommends that you decide first for yourself what you would prefer, and then that you should talk to your kid and let them decide. You need to give them a clear idea of what to expect so that they can make a decision that works for them. During the appointment, you need to be prepared to attend to their needs before your own – just like in so many other parenting situations. And keep talking to them— before, during and after.
Talking to Kids about Pet Loss
In this video, the first in a series about kids and pet loss, Dr Bruner discusses some strategies and general principles about talking to children about the death of a pet. Being clear, allowing their feelings and your feelings too, and giving reassurance that they still have love and support are all important. Dr Bruner also talks about using a memory box or a flower drawing to help memorialize a pet and talk about feelings.
You can find the second video, Should My Kids Be Present When Our Pet Is Euthanized?
And the third video, What Exactly Do I Say to Kids at a Home Euthanasia?
How Does the Loss of a Pet Affect Other Pets?
Dr. Bruner responds to a question from a viewer: “Should our other dog be present at the euthanasia of our dog?” and discusses the potential impact of the loss of a pet on other pets in the family.
Oral Sedation and Home Pet Euthanasia
“Can’t I just give her something at home?” Dr. Erika Bruner explores the pros and cons of pills (oral medications) and how we might use them in a home euthanasia setting to make the process as peaceful and comfortable as possible.
A Bucket List for Your Pets
In this new video, I discuss my thoughts and ideas for implementing a pet bucket list. It means something a bit different for animals compared to humans, but I still think it’s an appropriate term.
Writing Sympathy Cards For Pets Who Passed Away
Dr. Erika talks about how to write an effective sympathy card for someone who has lost a pet.
Presentation: Comfort Care at the End of Life for Pets (and Their People)
On June 3, 2019, Dr. Bruner gave a presentation at Kellogg-Hubbard Library in Montpelier, Vermont. The topic, End of Life Care for pets. This 90-minute talk featured conversation, a slide show presentation, and questions and answers from the audience. Full of valuable information, you can watch the video below.
A special thank you to both Kellogg-Hubbard Library and ORCA Media (Onion River Community Access). ORCA recorded and produced the video, and we repost it with gracious acknowledgment.
You can read more about End of Life care for animals right here on Dr. Bruner’s website. If you have a need for more information or are facing a challenge with your animals at the end of their lives, you can contact Dr. Bruner.