Most of us consider our pets to be family members. Not just a companion or accessory but an essential part of our lives. As our pets age, we have no choice but to make tough decisions. Some we handle gracefully, head on. However, one vet revealed something many of us may not know: Many pet owners chose to not be present when their pet is put down. A whopping 90% !

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The simple fact is– it’s just too hard for so many people to be physically present. Maybe it’s the fear of emotionally breaking down. Or the fear of having to see them go. Fear takes over and many opt to stay out of the room.

But the sad truth of one vet’s revelation is changing minds and that is why this article is so important to read.

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Jessi Dietrich wrote on Twitter that she asked her vet what the hardest thing was about his job. His response was clear:

“He said when he has to put an animal down 90% of owners don’t actually want to be in the room when he injects them so the animal’s last moments are usually them frantically looking around for their owners & tbh that broke me”

Dietrich added: “And for this reason I’m literally gonna be cradling my homeboy rick when his time comes with all his favorite toys and endless ear scratches at the ready regardless of how distraught I am.”

The tweet went viral and was retweeted more than 40,000 times and liked more than 180,000 times. Then people began to share their stories of what happened when their pets passed away.

Twitter

Sean Ritter wrote: “All 3 boys, my wife and I sat with our boy Luke in our living room. Toughest day. Hope he’s watching over us.”

The responses continued, one more heartbreaking than the next.

Twitter

In response to Dietrich, Mads wrote, “my family and i had to put my buddy down in may. i went along when it was time for him to go, and although it was heartbreaking and devastating, i am glad i was there to love on him. pets are like family and deserve peace and comfort in their final moments ❤️”

Dietrich admits that the topic is upsetting but sharing it has opened many pet owners’ eyes to what they may not have considered before.

While there are many responsibilities that come with pet ownership, some may feel that being present during the painful process of saying goodbye isn’t one of them. Others beg to differ. What is your take on the matter?

Stay for one more story, be sure to check out these Top Trending Stories below:

Lucky Elderly Man Is Greeted Every Day By A “Friend” Who Crawls Out Of The Ice:

We’ve all seen some unique and unlikely friendships over the years, but this one here may take the cake!

One day, a starving otter appeared at an elderly man’s door wanting some food. Ever since, Seppo Laamanen, 65, and Iivari the otter have been inseparable best friends.

Source: StoryTrender/YouTube

It all started when Seppo fed worms and fish to the small and malnourished otter who was clearly looking for food.

After that, the friendly animal repaid the kindness by visiting the man at his home in Punkaharju in easter Finland. This was the start of something special.

Source: StoryTrender/YouTube

There’s no way Seppo could’ve ever imagined it’d all lead to this. This adorably unique friendship is one for the ages, and it’s something you have to see to believe.

There’s nothing like the bond between two friends regardless of the species! 🙂

10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet

Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.

While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.

These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.

1) Akita

When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.

Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr

2) Boxer

This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.

Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr

3) Skye Terrier

Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.

Source: WaketheSun/Flickr

4) Beagle

This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.

Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr

5) Shar-Pei

This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.

Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr