What to Do When Your Dog Dies at Home
Confirming Your Dog’s Passing
Losing a dog at home can leave you feeling lost and unsure of what to do next. The very first step is to confirm that your dog has truly passed. Check for a heartbeat or pulse and watch their chest for any sign of breathing. Sometimes, a dog might be breathing very shallowly or be in transition, so if you’re not certain, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian or visit an emergency animal hospital for immediate advice.
Processing Grief and Seeking Support
Once you’re sure your dog has died, take a moment for yourself. Grief can hit hard—invite close friends or family over if you need emotional support. If there are other pets in your home, let them approach and smell their companion; this helps them process the loss too.
Contacting Professionals
Reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible. They’ll walk you through aftercare options like cremation or burial and may help with transferring or storing your pet’s remains. Some clinics and pet crematories offer body pickup—even 24/7 in some cases—so ask about availability. If you’re thinking about burying your pet at home, check local laws first since ordinances vary.
Handling Your Dog’s Remains
- Wear gloves when handling the body; bodily fluids may be released after death or during movement.
- If you wish, gently clean any visible fluids with a towel or cloth.
- Place towels, pads, or plastic sheeting beneath the body to absorb any fluids.
- Position your dog in a curled posture with legs tucked in—this makes transportation easier and gives a dignified appearance.
- Wrap the body in a clean blanket, towel, or sheet. Place it inside a strong plastic bag (double-bag if needed) and seal it securely.
- If the remains will be transported or picked up, label the bag with your pet’s name and your contact details.
- If immediate burial or cremation isn’t possible, store the remains in a cool place—ideally a refrigerator or freezer. A basement or garage can work for several hours but avoid warm areas or leaving the body outside where insects or animals could be attracted.
You’ll notice changes after death: rigor mortis (muscle stiffening) usually sets in within three to four hours. Arranging the body beforehand makes things easier later on. Decomposition brings odor quickly—especially in warm conditions—so make arrangements promptly.
Aftercare Options
- Burying at home: Only if local regulations allow it. Remove non-biodegradable materials before burial. Dig graves at least three feet deep in stable ground; some people plant a tree or place a marker as a tribute.
- Cremation: Choose individual (with ashes returned) or communal services. Facilities may offer urns, memorial jewelry, or keepsakes for storing ashes.
- Pet cemetery: Transport the body yourself or use professional aftercare services for burial in dedicated cemeteries.
Coping with Grief
Losing a companion animal hurts deeply—give yourself permission to mourn. Reach out to support groups, counselors, friends, or family members who understand what you're going through. Children and seniors may feel the loss especially keenly; answer questions honestly and let everyone process things their own way. Watch other pets for behavioral changes—they can grieve too.
Memorializing Your Dog
When you’re ready, find meaningful ways to remember your dog: hold a small ceremony, create a memory box of favorite toys and photos, display pictures around the house, or plant something special in their honor. Don’t forget practical tasks like updating microchip registrations if needed.
If You’re Unsure What To Do
If your pet’s passing was unexpected and you don’t know what steps to take: focus first on confirming death, contacting your vet for advice and support, and arranging respectful handling of remains. Veterinary staff and professional services are there to help with both practical arrangements and emotional support—you don’t have to handle everything alone. Every family’s grieving process is unique; give yourself (and others) time and space to heal as you move forward without your beloved companion.
