"Not everyone knows how to handle that kind of moment, so we show up for them. That's what matters."
Not everyone can do what Scott does. For nearly two decades, he’s helped families navigate one of the hardest parts of pet ownership – saying goodbye – with remarkable steadiness and compassion. Meet the man behind HSSV’s End of Life Services.
For 19 years, Scott has been the quiet, steady force behind some of the most difficult and meaningful moments at HSSV.
Scott has helped hundreds of families say goodbye with dignity and care. “People are overwhelmed. Grieving. You’ve got to hold space for that,” he says.
He recalls one moment stays with him. “There was a woman holding a baby, her partner completely falling apart, and she starts softly singing Stevie Wonder as we said goodbye to their pet,” Scott recalls. “It wasn’t perfect. Her voice cracked; she was crying. But it was one of the most human things I’ve ever seen. She was focused entirely on giving her pet comfort in their final moments. That’s what this work is about.”
Scott has helped hundreds of families say goodbye to their beloved pets.
“People are looking for competence, someone who knows what they’re doing,” he says. “You’ve got to stay calm when the family is struggling. It’s not always the same words, but I always seem to know what to say to each person. That part matters.”
Learn more about compassionate end-of-life support at HSSV here.
4 Comments on “Pets and People: Scott Holds Space to Say Goodbye”
love scott! he is a gem – compasion kindness and the rare blend of having people and animals skills! hssv is lucky to have scott on the team.
Thank you Scott for your compassion and love. Anyone who has lost a beloved family member knows what a difference you make! ❤️🩹♥️
Almost a year ago, I had to make the sudden decision to euthanize my 15-year-old chihuahua due to her declining quality of life. I was given multiple options of certain days + time, and I chose a time where I knew Scott would be the one performing the euthanasia because of his calm and respectful nature. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to be there for us in that moment. He handled everything with such care and made the process as peaceful as it could be.
Thank you Scott for your compassion and strength. Having to say goodbye to one of your pets can be emotionally devastating. HSSV is lucky to have you.