Euthanasia
Our pets are beloved members of our family and it can be heartbreaking to see them unwell. Unfortunately there are some illnesses that pets are unable to recover from. In the case of terminal illness and/or debilitating pain or suffering, one of the kindest things that we can do for them is to relieve them of that burden by making the difficult decision to put them to sleep.
How do I know if it is the right time to consider euthanasia?
Your veterinarian is the best person to advise you when it is time to consider euthanizing your pet. However there are also some signs and symptoms that your pet is no longer experiencing good quality of life, and if you notice these then it would be advisable to contact your veterinarian to determine if euthanasia would be the most humane course of action. These signs include:
- Chronic labored breathing, breathlessness and/or coughing
- Chronic pain that cannot be controlled by medication (your veterinarian can advise if this is the case)
- Frequent diarrhea and/or vomiting that leads to dehydration or severe weight loss
- Inability to stand or move around
- Disinterest in food or eating
- Incontinent to the stage where they are frequently soiling themselves
- No interest in communication with family members, treats, games or other previously enjoyed activity
- Zest for life is non-existent
Euthanasia has the small benefit of allowing family members the time to say their final goodbyes to your pet. This is an emotional time and giving them the opportunity for final displays of love and affection with their pet will help ease them into the grieving process. It is especially important to prepare young children as this may be their first experience of bereavement.
We will allow you to be present during the euthanasia procedure so that you can comfort your pet as they enter their final journey. This is a personal decision, but it is recommended that young children are not present during this time.
We will allow you to be present during the euthanasia procedure so that you can comfort your pet as they enter their final journey. This is a personal decision, but it is recommended that young children are not present during this time.
What happens during the euthanasia procedure?
Understanding what happens during a euthanasia procedure before the event can be beneficial. Not only will you understand the medical process, but you can be comforted by the knowledge that your pet will be put to sleep in a completely painless and peaceful way. Your veterinarian will explain the procedure to you fully, but if you require further clarification of any elements of the process then we will be happy to provide this.
Smaller to mid-sized pets are usually placed on a table, while larger animals are most easily put to sleep on the floor.
We give all of our patients an injection of a sedative into their muscle and once they are sleeping we give a final injection directly into their vein.
Once the injections are given, we will use a stethoscope to confirm that the heart has stopped beating. For a few minutes after the process you may witness involuntary muscle twitching and breathing from your pet. The bladder and bowels may also release. These are perfectly normal occurrences and no cause for concern. You are then given the option to spend a few minutes alone with your pet.
Smaller to mid-sized pets are usually placed on a table, while larger animals are most easily put to sleep on the floor.
We give all of our patients an injection of a sedative into their muscle and once they are sleeping we give a final injection directly into their vein.
Once the injections are given, we will use a stethoscope to confirm that the heart has stopped beating. For a few minutes after the process you may witness involuntary muscle twitching and breathing from your pet. The bladder and bowels may also release. These are perfectly normal occurrences and no cause for concern. You are then given the option to spend a few minutes alone with your pet.
Cremation or Burial
Ahead of the euthanasia process you will be asked whether you would prefer for your pet to be cremated or prepared for burial. Cremation is very popular. You can scatter your pets’ ashes in their favorite walking spot or keep them in an urn.
Alternatively you may wish to bury your pet. If you want to bury your pet at home you should check any local ordinances for restrictions. There are also pet cemeteries located across the US and your veterinarian should be able to advise you on the cemetery closest to you.
Alternatively you may wish to bury your pet. If you want to bury your pet at home you should check any local ordinances for restrictions. There are also pet cemeteries located across the US and your veterinarian should be able to advise you on the cemetery closest to you.
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