UK vet Robin Hargreaves, BVA president in 2013-2014, wrote on the BVA website that he spends much of his time helping owners separate sadness from guilt. He says a careful decision made for the animal's welfare is not a reason for guilt.
British Veterinary Association (BVA)I keep blaming myself for choosing euthanasia
If you are struggling right now, you can talk to someone.
findahelpline.com lists free helplines in each country
What people do around the world
Tell owners that euthanasia ends suffering and is not letting the dog down
from RSPCA guidance for owners
RSPCA「I had my dog put to sleep today. It feels unreal, and I regret not treating them better.」
Oct 2026Original post・Bluesky
Tell owners that second-guessing the decision is normal
from the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center
The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center, Honoring the Bond ProgramThe vet, the dog's condition and the owner decide together
a veterinary oncologist says it is not the owner's burden alone
TVBS 健康2.0「My rescue dog of 14 years was put to sleep yesterday, and I blame myself for not managing her ear infections in her last years.」
Oct 2026Original post・Reddit
Ask the vet to explain the diagnosis and options clearly
a study found owners without clear information felt more guilt
Università degli Studi di PadovaDog Aging Project studies on how owners experience pet loss
Texas A&M UniversityCoping with grief after the loss of a pet
The Ohio State UniversityUpdated 29 Oct 2026.