Bucket List Ideas from a Vet to Fit Your Pet
Bucket lists are a list of activities that you plan to complete before you ‘kick the bucket.’ Although it is often thought of during the preparation for end of life, it can be made and completed at any time. If you have an older pet or a pet with a recent diagnosis, it can be a great way to have fun together and give you something to look forward to and enjoy with your pet. Sometimes pet parents can feel limited on what they can do with their pet due to a recent diagnosis. This list will help you think through ideas with certain limitations.
Every bucket list is different because every pet is different. When creating your pet’s list, you should choose things that are meaningful for you and enjoyable for your pet, and tailored to your pet’s current abilities.
There are many things you can do for a bucket list, here are some ideas to fit your pet from a veterinary perspective:
If your pet struggles with mobility try:
House Party — If your pet loves people and/or other pets, consider inviting their favorites over to enjoy time together. You can include a party hat, customized banner and species-appropriate cake.
Get Crafty — Think about using pet-safe paint to create a pawprint painting. You can keep it clean or let them walk around on a canvas for a unique piece. Or, buy a canvas and squirt different color paints on it, then put it in a sealable plastic bag. On the outside of the bag put something they have to lick off to squish the paint around inside. Enjoy their masterpiece!
If your pet has food allergies or is on a strict diet try:
Puparazzi — A photoshoot can be a great way to capture your pet and you together. Find a photographer that can take photos that you will cherish the rest of your life. If you are interested in capturing those moments, reach out to The Tilly Project who helps pet guardians connect with end-of-life pet photographers to provide photoshoots at low or no cost.
Last Hurrah — There are many toxic foods that you have avoided or adhered strictly to a specialized diet to keep your pet safe and healthy. But what if they could enjoy it without any consequences? Many guardians offer their pet chocolate, garlic, onions, fatty meat, coffee or something outside of their current restricted diet to enjoy a few hours prior to their euthanasia appointment. That way, they can enjoy the food and never get sick.
If your pet struggles behaviorally try:
Snacks — Many pets enjoy a ‘pup cup’ from the local coffee shop or being treated to a hamburger or french fry from the local drive through. If your pet loves sharing food with you, be sure to add some new treats to their bucket list! If they have never tried it, now may be the time to treat them.
Day Trip — Some pets love the beach and others love the woods. But many pets have only ever known inland or city life. A trip to the beach can be a once in a lifetime experience for you and your pet, or a tried and true day of fun to enjoy. Don’t forget to bring a photographer! These are memories you’ll want to have forever. If your pet doesn’t love new places, consider the end of the block or even the next room. A trip can be as long or as short as they are comfortable with. If mobility is difficult, consider bringing items from different locations for them to smell.
If your pet’s care has taken a financial toll…
Within Budget — Celebrating your beloved pet doesn’t need to cost you. Consider playing with their favorite toy, or brushing them while they lay in their favorite bed. You can share a part of your meal or snack, or plan to spend a day together. You can document the day by taking some selfies or cute photos on your phone.
Keep it Comfortable — It can be tempting to plan something big and special for your pet. However, if your pet is most comfortable at home in their routine, consider small, but impactful ways to make memories.
The Memory Maker Kit
The Memory Maker Kit contains an experience, a snack, and a keepsake for your pet to enjoy. An instant camera will allow you to capture special or everyday moments you won’t want to forget. It comes with thirty exposures, plenty to make sure you capture it all.
Many of our pets are on specialized or restricted diets as they get older and sick. Our kit contains a special treat for them to indulge in. Letting go and enjoying the finer things in life can be a great way to have fun together.
Finally, a kit from a local glass blowing studio Hot Sand provides a beautiful glass paw print keepsake. This includes foam that molds to your pets paw, allowed to dry over 48 hours and return postage provided. The studio will mail back the mold for you to keep, along with a clear glass print of your pet’s paw, hand blown by their artists.
We created this kit with the hopes of creating lasting memories with your beloved pet, at any time in their life. If you are interested, please contact us.
Supporting You and Your Pet to Make More Memories
If you have a high-needs pet, or are not sure what is an appropriate set of goals to have on your list, we would be honored to help. Dr. Stephanie has helped many pet guardians assess their pet’s health and create a list of activities tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
You can schedule a virtual consultation to discuss options for your pet and how to ensure they are comfortable and having fun.
