Has she come into contact with the concept of death before? Maybe something along the lines of "the dog is hurting, we're going to the

doctor, who's going to give her something to make her go to sleep so she doesn't hurt any more"

she knows about death, but doesn't fully understand it. I'm thinking of something similar to what you've suggested

I think Lou has hit it on the head

I agree with J and Lou

Be clear that it's an *animal* doctor.

And that it's a *special* sleep.

The kind that only Animal Doctors can give to animals. You don't want her to be afraid that she'll go to sleep and not wake up.

good point kate. She's been to the vet's with the dog a few times, so hopefully appreciates the distinction

but you can't be too careful; it's funny what odd ideas kids can get

I've heard of that happening, and then the kids have all kinds of sleep problems for months on end.