A Healthy Dog Was Euthanized And Buried With Its Owner As Per Her Request

Our dogs are more than just pets—they’re a part of our family.

Because of the strong bond that dogs and their owners normally share, we tend to be plagued with worry about what our lives will be like when our beloved pooches pass away. After all, their lifespans are a fraction of ours.

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Emma the healthy Shih Tzu mix was a well-loved pup.

Image credit: Unsplash | Adam Grabek — Unsplash | Adam Grabek

Tragedy struck when her owner suddenly passed away.

Under normal circumstances, Emma would have been given to a family member or brought to a shelter. However, Emma’s owner had very particular instructions in her will as to what would become of the dog.

Emma was euthanized at the vet and buried with her owner.

Image credit: Unsplash | Greg Ortega — Unsplash | Greg Ortega

Chesterfield County Animal Services pleaded with the executor of the owner’s estate, but their wishes were ignored.

Carrie Jones, manager of Chesterfield County Animal Services, explained how unnecessary the death really was:

“We did suggest they could sign the dog over on numerous occasions — because it’s a dog we could easily find a home for and re-home…But ultimately, they came back in on March 22nd and redeemed the dog.”

Other Virginia vets have spoken out against the late owner’s wishes.

Image credit: Unsplash | Helloquence — Unsplash | Helloquence

Some local vets say that they refuse to carry out such services.

“Whenever we’re faced with a euthanasia situation, it’s a very emotional situation,” explains Dr. Kenny Lucas of the Shady Grove Animal Clinic, “And beyond everything we talk about — that we need to do ethically, and we’ve taken an oath to do.”

The public is expressing outrage over Emma’s death.

Image credit: Unsplash | Matheus Queiroz — Unsplash | Matheus Queiroz

“This is heartless, what a selfish monster” one person wrote on Twitter.

“People don’t care for animals in life or death!!! this is heartless, inhumane, and pitiful!!!!” another person wrote. “And the people who killed said dog are even more trash!!”