Letting go of our pets is never easy but euthanasia by your veterinarian is humane and can allow your friend to die peacefully and with dignity.
Making the decision – The decision to euthanize a family pet is very difficult, you are ending a life and it can be hard to know what is best. Your veterinarian can help you, he/she can tell you if you've done everything medically for your pet and answer any questions.
It may help you to look at your pet and take note of whether or not your pet is still enjoying the family, does it want to be with the family, does it know the family, is the pet sick or in pain. Answering these questions honestly may help you recognize your pets quality of life. If your pet has a poor quality of life it maybe time to let go. Only you can make this decision.
Making the appointment – Making the appointment to euthanize is never easy, you have to say out loud what you need done. If you make the appointment with a veterinarian that knows you and your pet it maybe easier because you will be among friends.
The veterinarian and staff see this everyday and it is hard for them too, but the staff will be loving and understanding of what you need to do. Some people choose to leave there pet, others want to be there. It is up to you and what you think is best. The staff will not think poorly of you if you do not want to be present for the euthanasia.
Some veterinarians will perform house calls. If you think this would be better for your family talk to your veterinarian about performing the euthanasia in your home.
What to expect at the appointment – If you decide to stay you will be in an exam room with your pet and given a chance to say goodbye. The veterinarian or a staff member will come in and talk to you about what is going to happen.
Depending on your dog or cat the veterinarian may suggest a sedative to make the pet more relaxed and sleepy. If this is not necessary the doctor will go ahead with the euthanasia. The euthanasia is performed by an injection directly into a vein. A staff member usually assists in holding the leg for the doctor to give the injection. You should be wherever you feel most comfortable. Many people want to hold there pet, others will stand near by and scratch an ear or stroke the muzzle, and others wait in the lobby.
After the injection is given the pet falls asleep and is unconscious. The animal will many times take a few deep breaths before passing away. Nerves may twitch, this is common and shouldn't frighten you and be aware that many times the eyes do not close. Sometimes the bowels release so you may want to bring a blanket to wrap your pet in.
After the appointment – A decision needs to be made concerning your pets body. Many people ask the veterinarian to take care of the body for them. If this is the case many times the pet is cremated. Ask you veterinarian so you'll know for sure. You can also take your pet home for burial or many places provide a service that allows you to get your pets ashes back in an urn.
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