We understand how difficult this moment can be. If possible, gently place your pet on a cool surface, such as in the laundry, garage, or on a deck or patio. If they’ve passed on their bed or blanket, it’s perfectly fine to leave them there. If they are on a bed or couch, consider moving them or placing a protective layer underneath, as natural loss of fluids may occur.

You can place a rolled towel under their head to help prevent blood from pooling at the nose. Light bleeding from the nose or mouth is a normal part of the process and nothing to be alarmed about.

To protect your flooring, place a towel or old blanket beneath their hindquarters, as it’s also natural for urine or feces to be released.

If you’d like, you can gently wrap your pet in a towel or blanket—though this is optional. If your pet is outside, covering them with a blanket or sheet can help shield them from insects.

It’s common for a pet’s eyes to remain open, as muscle relaxation after passing is part of the natural process. Other signs of passing may include loss of bodily fluids, coolness in the ears and paws, a bluish tint to the gums or tongue, stiffness in the limbs (rigor mortis), and a gradual loss of warmth. Please know that some pets may retain warmth or softness for several hours. If you’re uncertain whether your pet has passed, don’t hesitate to contact your nearest vet or emergency clinic for guidance.

Call Canamore Gardens Pet Cremations 24/7 and we will compassionately walk you through the process and explain your options. We are available anytime at 702-793-0942.

If you need to move your larger pet, it’s often easier to roll them onto a blanket, sheet, or tarp rather than lifting or dragging them. Lay the material alongside your pet, then—ideally with two people—gently lift their front and back legs to roll them onto it.

Support their head as it follows, either with your hand or by placing a rolled towel beneath it.

Once your pet is on the sheet, place a towel or pad under their hindquarters to catch any natural fluid loss. You can then gently pull the sheet to reposition them or use it for a two-person lift to move them to a safe, peaceful place.

You know your children best, and only you can decide the most appropriate way to help them through the loss of a beloved pet. Some families choose to let their children say goodbye, while others may prefer to move their pet out of sight to protect them from distress.

If you’ve chosen a private, individual or witness cremation, your children may find comfort in placing a favorite toy, treat, drawing, or letter with your pet. These special items can remain with them throughout the process as a heartfelt farewell.

If you feel it’s best for your children not to see your pet, we can arrange a discreet and respectful collection while they’re at school or in another room. Call us 24/7 at 702-793-0942.

If you believe your pet is nearing the end of their life, there are a few paths you can take depending on the situation:

1. Urgent Care Needed If your pet is very ill and requires immediate attention, contact your regular vet during business hours or if it is after hours or a weekend/holiday, contact your nearest emergency vet clinic.

2. Expected Passing Soon If your pet is elderly or terminally ill and expected to pass soon, you may consider reaching out to a hospice care vet. These professionals can visit your home to assess your pet, provide comfort care, and, if needed, perform gentle euthanasia in the comfort of your pet’s familiar surroundings. They can also arrange for your pet’s collection for individual cremation when you're ready.

3. Peaceful Passing at Home If your pet’s passing has been anticipated for some time and you choose not to pursue veterinary intervention, focus on keeping them as comfortable as possible. They may stop eating or drinking, seek solitude, or experience vomiting or incontinence—these are natural signs. If at any point you feel they are in pain, your vet can assist in making their final moments peaceful.

Above all, stay calm, take deep breaths, and be present with your pet. Your love and comfort mean everything in these final moments.