What To Do When Your Dog Dies at Home
Losing a dog at home is one of the hardest moments a pet owner will face. There is grief to sit with, and at the same time a few practical things that need doing. This guide walks you through both - gently, and in order.
Even if it doesn't feel like it, you have time. Sit with your dog if you need to. If you'd rather talk to a person at any point, call us any time, day or night.
1. Confirming your dog has passed
This isn't always obvious, particularly with older dogs who sleep deeply. Look and listen for:
- Breathing - watch the chest and belly for any rise and fall.
- A heartbeat - place your hand on the left side of the chest, just behind the front leg.
- A response - gently call their name, touch their paw, or lightly touch the corner of an eye.
If you have any uncertainty, call your vet straight away. Your vet can confirm over the phone or with a home visit, and many are happy to help organise next steps.
2. Caring for your dog's body in the first hours
Move them somewhere cool. Australia's climate matters here - a tiled floor, laundry, or air-conditioned room is ideal. Avoid carpet and direct sun.
Lay them on a blanket or towel with a waterproof layer underneath, as fluids may be released.
Position them gently in a curled, sleeping posture with legs tucked in, before stiffening begins.
Close their eyes and mouth if you wish. Entirely your choice - some families find it comforting.
Wrap them snugly, and if collection is delayed overnight, keep them cool with wrapped ice packs where practical.
As a rule of thumb: 4–6 hours at room temperature is fine; up to 24 hours if kept cool. In Australian summer those windows are shorter - if it's a hot day, please don't wait to call.
3. What you might notice - and why it's normal
In the first minutes you may see loss of bladder control, eyes staying open, small twitches, or a final sigh - these are the body relaxing, not distress. After 2–3 hours the body stiffens (rigor mortis), easing again within a day or so. None of it means anything was wrong.
4. Your options: cremation or burial
Your dog is cremated alone and the ashes returned in an urn or scatter tube. The most chosen option. How ashes are tracked and returned →
Several pets cremated together; ashes respectfully scattered, not returned. A memorial certificate is provided.
Legal in many areas but rules vary by state and council - often prohibited in metro Sydney and on rentals or strata. Bury at least 1 metre deep, away from water. Always confirm with your council first.
Council rules differ across NSW, VIC, QLD, WA and SA. In NSW you must also notify the council of your dog's death within 28 days and update the NSW Pet Registry.
5. Who to call - vet or us?
You're not certain your dog has passed, they were under care for a serious illness, or you'd like the death confirmed in person.
You're ready to arrange collection, want to talk through options, or it's outside vet hours and you need guidance now. There's no wrong order - we'll liaise with your vet either way.
6. Looking after yourself
Grief for a dog is real grief. Tell the people around you. Don't rush decisions about ashes or other pets - many families keep ashes at home for months before deciding what feels right. Watch the other animals in the house too; they often grieve.
If you need support, the Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement (grief.org.au) and the Lort Smith Pet Grief Support hotline are excellent starting points.
To arrange collection, ask a question, or simply hear a kind voice - any hour, any day.
This guide is general information only and does not replace advice from your vet or local council. Always confirm burial regulations with your council before proceeding.