Euthanizing Your Pet: What to expect
Losing a pet is tough. Deciding if or when you should euthanize your companion can be even tougher.
You may have questions about if the process is a good idea, or even how the procedure is done. Here are answers to some frequent questions we’re asked about euthanasia.
When is euthanizing my pet appropriate?
Humane euthanasia is typically recommended when the quality of life of the pet has declined, and there is little to nothing that can be done to improve the pet’s condition. A decrease in quality of life can mean that the pet is suffering unnecessarily, terminally ill, or is a great deal of pain that cannot be alleviated.
Your vet can offer his or her perspective, but the decision belongs solely to you as the owner. As your pet’s provider, you know your pet better than anyone, including your vet. It’s best to use your best judgement based on your daily interactions.
We encourage our pet parents to take time to evaluate what’s best for their furry friends, and try not to make a decision out of convenience. Remember, consider what’s best for your pet. Euthanasia is often the better option for those that are succumbing to prolonged suffering.
There can be a misconceived notion that pets who pass naturally at home do so more peacefully. This is rare. Unless there is an incident of a sudden or unexpected death, many pets suffer for some time before passing. Euthanasia is usually the more humane method.
Will my pet feel any pain?
The actual euthanasia process is not painful to the animal. A sedative is usually given to ease the process before the euthanizing injection is administered.
If the animal is in pain from illness upon arriving to the office, we administer medication to alleviate the pain.
How long will the process take?
Euthanasia is a quick process, usually ending within a matter of minutes.
First an IV catheter will be placed into the vein of the pet. At that point owners can decide to spend some time with their loved one before any solution is injected. When the owner is ready, the anesthetic Propofol is administered to induce unconsciousness. Once the animal is asleep, the second injection, a barbiturate will cause the heart to stop and the body to shut down.
How do I prepare my pet and my family for putting my pet down?
Choosing a “natural” death and euthanasia for a pet is a decision that varies from owner to owner. Even owners who chose euthanasia will experience some sadness from the decision. It’s never an easy decision to make, but it’s one that should be chosen when it’s in the best interest of your pet. If you have children, be sure to explain why you’ve made the decision and be prepared to allow some expression of grief. The best time to schedule the appointment is when you’ve made peace with the decision.
As for your pet, you can choose to spoil your pet or spend some quality time with them before arriving for the appointment. You may be prompted to give your friend an extra treat like chocolate or food you wouldn’t otherwise allow your pet to have. This may excite your pet or make them feel special, but you should also be prepared that the animal may not want the food. Sick dogs, for example, will often stop eating if they’re too ill.
Can my pet be euthanized in my home?
Home euthanasia is suggested if your pet is immobile, or would be more at peace in the comfort of your home.
We do home euthanasia at the owners request. I’ve had several clients if the pet may be more at peace or comfortable at home. Or large pet that has trouble with mobility issues, we’ll go out to the house. Depends on what they want to do with the remains, we’ll take the pet back to the hospital, some people prefer to bury the pets.
What happens afterward?
Pet owners should decide if they want their pet to be cremated or buried. If cremation is the preferred choice, you will likely leave your animal with the vet.
If you’d prefer to bury your animal, you can take him or her home with you after the procedure.
Euthanasia may be the more humane way for your pet to pass, but it is by no means the easiest decision for you as a pet parent. If you’re struggling with your decision, try to consider your pet’s quality of life and if he or she is living happily. As always, we’re here to help.
