Guidance & Grace: A Workbook for Those Considering Behavioral Euthanasia or Rehoming

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If you're struggling with the possibility of rehoming or euthanizing your dog due to aggression or other behavioral issues, you're not alone. This workbook was created to help you reflect with clarity, compassion, and support. You don't have to carry the weight of this decision alone.

What You'll Find Inside

This 20-page guided resource includes:

  • Reflection prompts to clarify your values, boundaries, and capacity
  • Checklists to document your dog's behavior and safety risks
  • Tools to evaluate quality of life for both your dog and your family
  • An overview of management, rehoming, and behavioral euthanasia options
  • Guidance on ruling out medical issues, especially pain, as underlying causes
  • Resources for grief and aftercare if euthanasia becomes the most compassionate choice
Dog Trainer Cathy Madson and Sookie her Welsh Cardigan Corgi About

Why I Created This Workbook

I'm Cathy Madson, a certified canine behavior consultant with over 15 years of experience helping families through the most complex behavior cases, including aggression.

I've spoken with countless dog guardians facing this exact decision. I know it's never easy, never fair, and never about "giving up." It can feel overwhelming to bring this issue up to your local trainer, veterinarian, shelter, breeder, or even family. My goal is to help you feel supported and informed, so that whatever decision you make, you can make it with compassion and confidence.

This workbook can help you organize your thoughts and work through important considerations regarding safety, management, quality of life, and more. After working through the questions and reflections, you'll have a clearer picture of the impact your dog's behavior has on both you and them, as well as the sustainability of your current situation.

This workbook won't give you a black-and-white answer, but it will help you feel more grounded and confident as you consider your options — and decide whether additional support, like a Guidance & Grace Consultation, might be the right next step.

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

If after working through the workbook you still feel unsure, or if your answers are mixed, my Guidance & Grace Consultation can help.

It's a one-on-one virtual session where we'll talk openly about your situation. I'll help you evaluate your dog's behavior, give you an initial prognosis, review your options and your next steps in a safe, judgement-free space.

Learn More About Meeting with Me Here