It's never an easy decision
A decision concerning euthanasia may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make. Deciding when is the "right time" for your pet, you and your family can be a very stressful life event.
Remember you are not in this alone; your veterinarian understands the bond your share with your animal companion and can evaluate your pet’s condition and explain options and time frames. Talking things over with a One Welfare social worker in collaboration with your vet can give you time and space to unpack your emotions and further explore options.
Remember you are not in this alone; your veterinarian understands the bond your share with your animal companion and can evaluate your pet’s condition and explain options and time frames. Talking things over with a One Welfare social worker in collaboration with your vet can give you time and space to unpack your emotions and further explore options.
How will I know when?
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Your veterinarian is able to express an informed opinion on the level of your animal's distress and advise on the relief of pain and suffering. They can guide you on decision-making and what is in the best interest for your pet.
Euthanasia is usually considered if there is no hope of recovery from an injury or illness. When we know our animal companion is suffering, it may be time to ask "do they have more bad days than good days?" If your companion animal can no longer experience the things they once enjoyed, cannot respond to you in usual ways, or appears to be experiencing more pain than pleasure, you may consider euthanasia.
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What happens?
You can choose home euthanasia (either a home visit from your regular vet, or a mobile vet service), or at your veterinarian's clinic. Whatever is right for you, your family and your pet.
For dogs and cats your vet will administer a tranquiliser first to relax your pet, and then inject a death-inducing drug. Following this second injection, your pet will become deeply unconscious and death is quick and painless. Sometimes our animals may move their body or breathe deeply several times after the drug is given, but these are reflex actions and do not mean that your pet is in pain or is suffering. Your pets eyes may remain open, and they may defecate or release body fluids.
For dogs and cats your vet will administer a tranquiliser first to relax your pet, and then inject a death-inducing drug. Following this second injection, your pet will become deeply unconscious and death is quick and painless. Sometimes our animals may move their body or breathe deeply several times after the drug is given, but these are reflex actions and do not mean that your pet is in pain or is suffering. Your pets eyes may remain open, and they may defecate or release body fluids.
What happens afterwards?
Your vet may give you some private time alone with your pet, they understand this is a very emotional time. They may suggest you pay the account up front so you do not have to worry about this afterwards.
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You can make a decision about aftercare before the procedure, and your vet can provide details of cremation or burial services. Your vet can usually arrange pickup from the practice, or you may want your pet to be buried at home. There are services which can provide urns, plaques, garden stones, etc to memoralise your pet.
Other ways to remember and honour your pet may be helpful such as framing a picture, planting a tree, write a journal or scrapbook, or donate items/money to a local pet shelter. |
Red Dog Memorial, Dampier WA
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