What Should I Expect Right After My Pet Dies?
What Should I Expect Right After My Pet Dies?
Right after your pet dies, you may notice their breathing stop, their body relax, their eyes stay open, and small reflex movements—these are normal and do not mean your pet is suffering. Your veterinarian will confirm passing and then guide you through aftercare.
First: what you’re feeling is normal
Even when a pet passes peacefully, the minutes afterward can feel surreal. Many families feel:
• shock
• panic
• guilt
• numbness
• intense sadness
You’re not overreacting. This is grief — and it can hit fast.
The most important reassurance
When euthanasia is done properly, your pet is already deeply unconscious and comfortable before the final medication is given.
So what you may see afterward can be startling — but it is not pain.
What you may see right after your pet dies (and what it means)
1) Breathing stops
This is typically the first sign families recognize.
Your vet will usually confirm death by listening for:
• heartbeat
• breath sounds
This may feel unreal — but it is peaceful.
2) The body relaxes completely
Muscles release. The jaw may loosen. Your pet’s posture may shift.
This is normal and expected.
3) The eyes may remain open
This can be very emotional and surprising.
In many cases, pets’ eyes do not close after passing — this is normal.
4) You may see a “final breath” or sigh (agonal breath)
Some pets take one or two deeper breaths after the heart has stopped. It can look like:
• a sigh
• a gasp
• a deep inhale
This is a reflex, not distress.
5) Small twitching or muscle movements
This is another thing that scares families.
You may notice:
• twitching
• small limb movement
• a shiver-like motion
These are reflexes. It does not mean awareness or suffering.
6) Release of urine or stool
This is normal.
After the muscles relax, the bladder or bowels may release. Your vet will be prepared and discreet.
7) The body may cool quickly
After death, circulation stops and the body begins to cool.
This can happen sooner than people expect, especially in smaller pets.
What happens immediately after: what the vet will do
Most in-home euthanasia veterinarians will:
• confirm passing
• give you quiet time
• answer any questions
• discuss the next steps
• handle transportation (if cremation is chosen)
This is intentionally unhurried and respectful.
Do I have to say goodbye right away?
No.
One of the benefits of in-home euthanasia is that families can often take time:
• sit with their pet
• hold them
• talk
• cry
• pray
• let children say goodbye gently
There is no “right amount of time.”
What should I do next? (Aftercare options)
Option 1: Private cremation
Private cremation means:
• your pet is cremated individually
• ashes are returned to you (usually in an urn or container)
Option 2: Communal cremation
Communal cremation means:
• cremation occurs with other pets
• ashes are not returned
Option 3: Burial
Burial may be possible, but rules vary by location.
It’s always best to confirm:
• local county/city rules
• depth and safety guidance
• distance from water sources
(Especially important in Georgia, depending on your county.)
What NOT to do right after (common mistakes)
In the first moments after loss, avoid:
• forcing yourself to “be strong”
• rushing decisions if you don’t need to
• judging how you’re reacting
• letting anyone pressure you into a choice
Grief isn’t a performance. It’s love with nowhere to go.
FAQ: What happens right after a pet dies?
Is it normal for my pet’s eyes to stay open?
Yes. Many pets’ eyes remain open after death. This is normal.
Why did my pet twitch after euthanasia?
Small movements can occur as reflexes even after passing. This does not indicate pain or awareness.
Can my pet still hear me after they pass?
During euthanasia, sedation is used so your pet is deeply unconscious before the final medication is given.
What should I do with my other pets afterward?
Some families allow other pets to smell and observe briefly, which may help them adjust. Others keep pets separated to maintain calm.
How soon do I need to decide cremation or burial?
It’s best to decide ahead of time when possible, but your veterinarian can guide you through options if you’re unsure.