For those of us with beloved pets, the last thing we want to do is imagine them needing to be put down.
Saying goodbye to your furry companion at the end of their life is often a harrowing experience, meaning many pet owners would rather choose to not be in the room during their final moments at the vet.
But one veterinary nurse has issued an emotional plea for all pet owners, advising them that although it may be hard, it's worth staying by their animal's side until it's all over, talking to them until it's time for them to drift away.
This way, they'll know that they've been loved right up until their final moments on Earth.
Vet nurse Rachel Bean told the Mirror: "Dogs are family group animals and you are their attachment figure, their role model, the centre of their whole world.
"Your dog will take a tremendous amount of comfort from seeing you, hearing your voice and feeling soothing gentle strokes from you in this unusual environment.
"In the room make sure that your dog can see your face, and see that you are there. Talk to them and tell them how loved they are.
"Research shows that dogs understand the words 'I love you' so tell your dog how much you care about them, and thank them for sharing their precious life with you.
"This can be a very raw and emotional time, and you may feel angry, numb, upset or tearful."
Rachel continued: "Understand that these emotions are completely normal, and that the veterinary staff are doing their best to make this moment as gentle as possible.
"The key in all of this is that your dog needs to see your face, and hear your voice at this moment.
"It will calm and soothe them, and it is the last good thing that we can do for our pets, who give us nothing but love."
Rachel knows that the process of euthanising your beloved pet can be incredibly hard, so she has issued an explanation on how it all works.
She added: "Having to say goodbye to a beloved pet is the moment that we all dread, and when it is time to let your dog go, it can be a dignified and loving experience.
"You will be taken into a room with your dog, and the vet will administer a measured overdose of a drug, which helps your dog drift off in a painless and humane way.
"This can be a difficult and emotional time for owners, but please think about your dog at this moment.
"Think of all that they have given you in your life, and try and save any outbursts or loud noises for after the procedure is completed, this moment is about love, and calm, and a fitting end for your beloved companion."
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