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I think my pet is dead, how can I be sure?

It can be very upsetting in this situation and you obviously need to be sure that your pet has passed away. If your pet has died there will no longer be any breathing or any other movement. (Although immediately after death there can be some muscle tremors and gasping movements which people can find very distressing to witness). The pupils of the eyes will be dilated and will not react to light but the eyes will probably be open. The gums and mucus membranes will look bluish or pale. After some time the body will cool and stiffen (rigor mortis).

If you are in any doubt about whether your pet is dead or not, then take the body to the veterinary surgery where the vet or nurse will check for you and discuss what further steps you should take.

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