How far in advance to tell child about losing pet

[Anonymous]

We are making end of life arrangements for our very beloved dog. We know the date when we will let her go (later this week). I don’t know if I should tell my 9 year old now (will that just mean she’s distraught all week?) or one day before (will that be too last minute and will she be angry?) or something else. We told DD about a week ago that we only had a few weeks left. She’s aware and has talked at least 1-2 times a day about how much she will miss our dog. But how much time should she spend really saying goodbye?

I’m really struggling here. Please be gentle.

[Anonymous]

I am very sorry to hear about your dog. You know your child best. With my kids I try to slowly prepare them and gauge their reaction. I would lean more towards telling them early so that they can perhaps share some additional special moments with the dog.

[Anonymous]

Just an fyi OP My dog had a brain tumor and towards the end I had a plan to put her down a few days later. She rapidly went downhill and I had to do it the next day.
We didnt have a kid at the time but just wanted you to think about what you would do if something changes.

[Anonymous]

I got a few hours notice before our family dog was put to sleep. We went to visit her at the vet and say goodbye. I just accepted that's what we got with her.

I wouldn't give your DD more than a day. Take some pics of them together.

[Anonymous]

OP not sure what your plan is but our vet came to our house when we did this. I felt it was much better for the dog and for us. Not sure if it was extra but we paid just over $100 a couple of years ago.

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone. We saw the vet last week and he estimated we had a month left but she has gone downhill rapidly and we feel we cannot wait that long. I emailed a service to arrange them to come to our home but still waiting to hear back. We took photos yesterday.

I’ve made a couple comments today like “this is her last chance to taste a cupcake,” just to keep my DD aware. I guess I will keep playing it by ear as to when to tell her the date and time.

Thank you for your kind responses. It’s so hard.