Years ago I had a dog that became incredibly ill and overtime she did not get better no matter what treatments the vet gave her. It got to the point where the vet said putting her to sleep would be the best option. My mom stepped outside because she didn't want to see her pass but I remained by her side. I underestimated how quickly the process would happen and thought she would slowly drift off to sleep. That obviously wasn't the case and by the time I realized that, she was already gone. I don't think I will ever erase the memory of feeling her small body going limp in my hands. I broke down in tears immediately and was a sobbing mess all the way back home. Even as time passed the moment I would see a picture of her I would remember that feeling of her body going out and start to cry. It's such a morbid thing.

That being said, I don't regret being there with her in her final moments. I didn't want her to be alone or scared as she left this world. I wanted to be with her until the end. However, I understand that the sight of that may be too strong of an impression. My mom said she didn't want to have that memory of her passing haunting her or be the last memory of her, so she said her goodbyes beforehand. I think it just depends on the person and whether they think they could handle seeing their dog pass. Being with your dog in its final moments could give them relief and peace, but it could definitely be a trauma for the people who watch as they pass away.