Pet Doula and Pet Celebrations
Compassionate, empathetic Pet Doula services and Celebrations at the end of your pet’s life.
Pet Doula
The bond with our pets is strong, and facing the prospect of losing them can be crippling. There are times when their loss is unexpected, or we may need to decide to euthanise them due to the ageing process or health issues affecting their quality of life.
When facing these difficult times, it can be helpful to have the support of a Pet Doula. As a non-medical person, a pet doula can provide emotional and educational support to pets and their families during their final life stages.
The following services are available:
- An End-of-Life plan – Contains the specifics of your pet’s journey towards the end of their life. Details will be discussed about what you would like to happen, and other resources and support that may be available.
- Lead-up and afterwards – Provision of support before euthanasia and your aftercare support plan.
- Euthanasia support – The walk into the vet’s office for euthanasia is the loneliest walk of all. As your Pet Doula, I can attend with you to provide support, or I can act on your behalf as a stand-in and be there with your pet whilst they are being euthanised.
In a safe and caring environment, you will be supported to make the most appropriate choices for you and your family. As a trained Animal Companion Doula™, I can provide end-of-life services for your pet and support you through these final stages.
*All services support and incorporate your veterinary care and advice. Pet Doula services are by appointment and are subject to availability.
FAQ’s about Pet Doula Services
We have put together a list of our most frequently asked questions.
What does a Doula do?
An end of life doula is a person who is not medically trained, but can help with information regarding options, and provide education and support to those who are dying and those around them.
An Animal Companion Doula ™ provides this service for pets and their families.
What is an End-of-Life Plan?
Going through the final stages of your pets’ life is difficult and we can lose track of what is going on.
An End-of-Life plan is a document that contains information such as health and veterinary care you wish to have, or not have, for your pet. We will talk about quality of life and other components to help give you peace of mind. The plan is developed in support of your veterinary advice and care.
Will you give medication to my pet?
No. You will need to administer any medication.
Do I need to make an appointment if I want you to be with my pet whilst it is being euthanised?
Yes. Support during euthanasia is by appointment only.
Do you want to meet with me and my pet before it is euthanised?
Yes, I prefer to meet you and your pet before I support with euthanasia. It is important to me that you are both comfortable and not with a stranger.
Will you perform the euthanasia?
No. Euthanasia will need to be performed by a vet in a clinic, or at your home (if the vet provides this service and you wish for a home euthanasia). If you do not feel you are able to be in the room when your pet is euthanised, I can stand in for you and be there with your pet. Alternatively, I can accompany you and be there with you for support.
Will you provide a cremation service or move my pets' body?
No. You will need to arrange this. There are a number of providers in the area who can offer this service.
Can we include counselling services afterwards?
Absolutely. Sometimes we need help processing our emotions and grief. View our Pet Loss Counselling service here.
Pet Celebrations
Celebrating and honouring the unconditional love and joy they’ve provided us.
We are devoted to our pets and losing them can be a difficult and emotional experience for the whole family. Holding a funeral, or celebration of life, can be a great way to honour the love, life, and memories we shared with them.
As an Animal Companion Celebrant™ and member of the Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants, I work with families to create a customised ceremony that reflects your pet’s unique personality, and the special bond they shared with your family. The loss of a pet can be the first experience children have with death and loss. We encourage them to be as involved as possible.
Every pet is an equal. Whether the ceremony is for a goldfish or a dog, cat or lizard, the level of service and care is the same.
*Pet Celebration services are available in the Cairns, Port Douglas, Atherton Tablelands and Cassowary Coast areas.
FAQ’s about Pet Celebrations
We have put together a list of our most frequently asked questions.
Are funerals and celebrations only for cats and dogs?
No, pets can have fur, feathers, scales or skin.
If the pet is being buried at home, do you provide a coffin?
I do not provide coffins for home burials. This will need to be arranged separately. Please ensure you check with your local Council to understand if there are any specific regulations for home burial.
Can the whole family be involved?
Yes, all planning is done in co-operation with the family. It is also recommended that kids are as involved as possible.
How much does a funeral / celebration service cost?
The cost of the service would depend on what is required, and the amount of time required. A quote is prepared for every service.
Does the family get to keep everything from the service?
Yes, each item is sourced specifically for the individual service.