Imagine a World where Humans have Dog-like Qualities

Written by Dr Amy Arnell 12/2/24

When I sit with grieving humans in the final moments of their dogs life, they often reflect on the nature of their beloved friends. They describe them with words such as loyal, faithful, a rock, forgiving, non judgemental and always unconditional love.

Dogs embody unconditional love. In their eyes you can do no wrong. They are their for you no matter how sad, angry, busy, lazy or happy you are. If humans spent more time seeing the good in people and letting go of the things that annoyed us, what a lovely world it would be. Our animals can be our greatest teachers.

How their Character affects how we interpret their Quality of Life

As part of all their endearing qualities, our dogs like to please us. It is therefore worth remembering that they would do anything to make us smile (dogs can read our facial expressions better than humans can). I always remind people of this quality when their beloved dogs are nearing the end of their life. A wag of a tail and even picking at a meal can sometimes be interpreted as the dog is ok. While it could just be a way of pleasing their human.

They are loyal to the end and I know they find it very hard to leave us when their bodies have had enough. Giving them permission to let go and supporting them through the gentle process of home euthanasia is the most loving thing we can do and our final gift to them when suffering becomes too much.

Dogs are the most positive, hopeful, forgiving, loving creatures. It is such an honour to sit with these incredible creatures and support them through their final moments. Ensuring they feel safe and comfortable as we let them go gently. Supported to the end like they have always supported us.