Making Tough Decisions About Sick Pets
November 20th, 2008 Posted in Pets GuideThere are not many companions as consistent and committed to us. They are our playmates, our protectors and our silent supporters on our darkest days.
“In a lot of ways as our families have become more spread out, at least our family of origin,” said Jeannine Moga, social worker at the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
“Our animals are sometimes like surrogate children, sometimes their like partners, they’re really wonderful companions during very difficult life transitions when otherwise many people feel very isolated,” she said.
Wilke explained the risks, costs and possible consequences of each procedure with me. But all I knew was Madelyn was sick. I was stuck, and a little embarrassed about my angst.
Apparently, I’m not the only one. That’s one reason the University of Minnesota has social workers to help weigh the emotional and practical tug-of-war.
Tags: animals, college of veterinary medicine, companions, consequences, darkest days, decisions, family of origin, life transitions, playmates, s college, sick pets, social worker, social workers, surrogate children, tug of war, university of minnesota, wilkeRelated posts
Tags: animals, college of veterinary medicine, companions, consequences, darkest days, decisions, family of origin, life transitions, playmates, s college, sick pets, social worker, social workers, surrogate children, tug of war, university of minnesota, wilke