Visiting professionals make putting down of beloved pet easier

Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Published Wednesday, October 22, 2014

RANKIN INLET
It can be a traumatic experience for an animal lover when the day comes a beloved pet has to be put down.

All the logic in the world, and telling oneself your furry little pal is hurting constantly, doesn't take away the anguish of the loss or the guilt felt within from having to make the final decision.

It can be a life-changing moment for some pet owners, but one that can be softened by the gentle manner and understanding of a caring veterinarian who knows what the animal means to you.

Steve Hartman of Rankin Inlet had rarely felt as vulnerable as when he knew in his heart he had to end the life of his 14-year-old canine.

Hartman is thankful for the efforts of Page Burt and staff members of the Tuxedo Animal Hospital for helping to ease the pain of a hurtful day.

He said when the time came, those present handled the situation with care and professionalism.

"The community is appreciative of them coming to Rankin to provide pet services every year, but, in a case like this, what they did on a comfort level was very much appreciated," said Hartman.

"They went out of their way to help, and they were understanding of the compassion within those people who, maybe, take their pet care a little differently than others.

"I found it very hard to be the one to make the decision that this was the right time.

"Dr. Pat Dorval did it for me and, God bless them, they knew how hard it was for me, so they went out to my cabin with me to do it there, and I know Page (Burt) kind of quarterbacked that for me."

Hartman, who has lived in Rankin for more than 10 years, said he's quite grateful Dorval and her team were able to help him in the manner they did.

He said it may sound strange, but he was very upset about what was about to happen and he appreciated the fact the animal health care professionals didn't make him feel dumb, or anything like that, for being so sad.

"I can't really say I've seen any big differences in the way people treat their pets during my time here, except for, maybe, there seems to be more spays, neuters and animals getting their vaccinations today, which are all good things.

"There's good and bad pet owners everywhere and Rankin is no different. But, when it comes to the clinic, it's nice to have it there for people who want to take advantage of the service.

"I was dreading the clinic coming in September this year because of the decision I had to make, but, as I told Pat (Dorval), I was forced into a corner, but it was nice to have a choice that particular week.

"I have nothing against putting down an animal the traditional way here, but it just wasn't the way I wanted to do it for this particular animal."