Emotional Preparedness: How to Navigate Guilt and Grief
Curtis James Sullivan Curtis James Sullivan

Emotional Preparedness: How to Navigate Guilt and Grief

Losing a beloved companion animal is one of the most difficult experiences a pet owner will face. Whether through natural passing, euthanasia, or a sudden event such as an accident, the loss is likely to leave a lasting impression on a person. The loss of an animal is accompanied by aftercare decisions such aquamation, burial, or cremation as well; this can call-forth emotions such as guilt and grief which can feel overwhelming. While these feelings are natural, it’s important to recognize that saying “goodbye” and letting go are both acts of love for yourself and for your animal.

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Balancing Medical Treatment and Compassionate Care
Animal Care, animal stewardship, Euthanasia, Aquamation Curtis James Sullivan Animal Care, animal stewardship, Euthanasia, Aquamation Curtis James Sullivan

Balancing Medical Treatment and Compassionate Care

Understanding “How to Know When It’s Time to Say Goodbye to a Pet” is no easy task; it is complex and the added role of emotions can increase the intensity of the experience. Some people believe in “better a week early than a day late” on the topic, while others want every minute possible with their animal companions. We’re not here to pass judgement on your philosophical approach, but Eternal Tides will remain ready to assist in the difficult aspects of that inevitable “goodbye.”

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The Role of Your Veterinarian: Making Informed Decisions
Euthanasia, animal stewardship, Animal Care Curtis James Sullivan Euthanasia, animal stewardship, Animal Care Curtis James Sullivan

The Role of Your Veterinarian: Making Informed Decisions

As we explore the theme of “How to Know When It’s Time to Say Goodbye to a Pet,” we turn to our community of skilled professionals. In cases such as people choosing plan-ahead servicesas well as when losing a friend is a total surprise, I get asked often about what to look for and/or what was missed. Perhaps this article might help craft your next conversation with your animal’s healthcare provider.

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Recognizing the Signs: When Your Pet’s Quality of Life Changes
animal stewardship Curtis James Sullivan animal stewardship Curtis James Sullivan

Recognizing the Signs: When Your Pet’s Quality of Life Changes

The nature of Eternal Tides’ business is forever tried to inevitable “bad days” for people who love their animals. For some people, the end comes quickly and without much warning; others endure a slow march with different signs of declining health and comfort. Hard is hard… regardless of how it comes, losing a friend is hard. In this series, I aim to explore the theme of “How to Know When It’s Time to Say Goodbye to a Pet.”

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Giving Back in Goodbye: How Pet Aftercare Reflects Generosity
pet loss Curtis James Sullivan pet loss Curtis James Sullivan

Giving Back in Goodbye: How Pet Aftercare Reflects Generosity

Pet aftercare is more than a practical decision; it’s an opportunity to give back, both to our companions and to the world around us. By selecting ethical and sustainable aftercare options, pet guardians can ensure their final act of stewardship reflects the same generosity they showed throughout their pet’s life. Thoughtful decisions, such as aquamation over traditional cremation or donating to organizations that support pet loss resources, allow families to turn grief into an act of kindness

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The Heart of Animal Stewardship: Caring for Pets Through Every Stage of Life
Animal Care Curtis James Sullivan Animal Care Curtis James Sullivan

The Heart of Animal Stewardship: Caring for Pets Through Every Stage of Life

Welcoming a pet into your home is more than an adoption—it’s a lifelong commitment. From the first wobbly steps of a puppy or kitten to the gentle pace of an aging companion, animal stewardship means providing love, care, and thoughtful decision-making at every stage of life. True stewardship extends beyond food, shelter, and routine vet visits. It means planning for a pet’s future, anticipating medical needs, and making ethical choices that align with both their well-being and our values.

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Giving Hearts, Giving Hope: How Our Community Supports Animals in Need
Community Curtis James Sullivan Community Curtis James Sullivan

Giving Hearts, Giving Hope: How Our Community Supports Animals in Need

Every year, the Fargo-Moorhead community comes together for Giving Hearts Day, a powerful 24-hour fundraising event that supports hundreds of local nonprofits. Since its inception in 2008, this annual day of giving has raised millions of dollars to strengthen organizations that provide vital services—including those dedicated to the well-being of animals. The spirit of generosity is one of the best parts of the region.

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