How do you deal with an 'on the way out' pet?

I feel for you regardless of the "business" side of things. 2-1/2 years back, I had to make the call to have my best friend put down on Christmas Eve. 14-1/2 years old for a big dog is a good life but it did not lessen the pain. 7:00 pm was the earliest we could see the vet so that's what we did. NOT a good Christmas! Cost was a bit under $200 but I brought him home and buried him in my yard. The vet was very compassionate and made it as best as she could. Unfortunately, it's the worst part of owning a pet. His name is on my car.