How to teach pet loss to veterinary students

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Animal-Human Bond
• Grief Counseling

Background:

• The veterinary profession has increased awareness and skill in addressing client needs following pet loss over the past 25 years.
• There is a recognized need to enhance the preparedness of new veterinarians in handling pet loss situations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the history and current state of teaching pet loss in veterinary medicine.
• To identify essential skills for veterinarians dealing with pet loss.
• To propose a curriculum and teaching methodologies for pet loss education.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on veterinary education and pet loss.
• Analysis of skills required for client support during pet bereavement.
• Development of a sample curriculum framework.

Main Results:

• Veterinary colleges can prepare students by teaching them to explain poor prognoses, assess clients, guide decision-making, and provide support.
• A multi-faceted approach involving veterinary faculty, practitioners, mental health professionals, clients, and peers is recommended for effective teaching.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced veterinary curricula are crucial for improving practitioners' ability to manage pet loss.
• Collaborative teaching models involving diverse experts can effectively impart necessary skills for supporting grieving clients.