Euthanasia

Deciding to say goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. It is often one of the most difficult and emotional choices you may face as a pet owner. Sometimes, when there is no hope for recovery or when your pet’s quality of life has significantly declined due to illness or injury, the most compassionate and humane choice may be to allow your veterinarian to help them pass peacefully through euthanasia. While this decision is deeply personal, please know that you are not alone. Our compassionate veterinary team, along with your friends and family, are here to support you every step of the way. It’s completely natural to feel grief, sadness, guilt, or confusion during this time. Rest assured, we will help guide and support you through these difficult moments.

About

Euthanasia is medical procedure that is performed to intentionally end a pet’s life in a painless and peaceful manner to relieve the suffering. The decision to euthanize a pet is often considered when they are suffering from a terminal illness (i.e., cancer or organ failure), have sustained severe injuries or trauma, or are experiencing chronic pain that significantly diminishes their quality of life. Age can also play a role in this difficult decision, as older pets may experience signs of irreversible decline in both function and comfort. Our veterinary team can help assess these factors, along with any other concerns you may have regarding your pet, and determine whether euthanasia is the best option. Should we decide to proceed, euthanasia is typically carried out in a gentle and peaceful manner. We understand the significance of this moment and remain compassionate toward your pet, offering care and support throughout the procedure and into the aftercare.

Euthanasia is performed using an intravenous (IV) injection, which delivers a sedative followed by a euthanasia solution containing barbiturates. Initially, a sedative is administered through the IV to help your pet relax and fall into a deep sleep. Once your pet is fully relaxed and unconscious, a lethal dose of the euthanasia solution is given, ensuring a peaceful and painless passing. Throughout this process, many pets do not experience pain; however, if you notice twitching, gasping, urination, or defecation, these are normal responses as their body relaxes after passing. Rest assured, our veterinary team is here to provide you with the utmost care and compassion, ensuring your pet’s comfort and dignity throughout this process.”

How Can I Tell When It's Time to Let Go?

Knowing when it’s time to consider euthanasia for your pet is one of the most difficult and emotional decisions a pet owner can face. This decision comes with many challenges, as it involves assessing your pet’s quality of life, consulting with your veterinarian, discussing options with family and friends, and, most importantly, listening to your heart. While these are some of the factors to consider, there are also various ‘quality of life’ scales that our veterinary team can use to assess your pet’s condition. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Persistent Pain or Discomfort: If your pet is in constant pain, despite prolonged medication or treatment, or shows no signs of improvement, euthanasia may be the kindest option to relieve their suffering.
Loss of Mobility or Independence: If your pet is unable to walk or move around on their own and constantly requires assistance with basic needs (e.g., eating, drinking), this may be a sign that their quality of life is declining.
Loss of Appetite or Inability to Eat/Drink: If your pet has stopped eating or drinking, despite treatment or assistance, it may be a sign that their quality of life is declining.
Chronic Illness or Terminal Conditions: If your pet is suffering from a terminal illness, such as cancer, organ failure, or other severe conditions, to the point where their body can no longer support them, euthanasia may be the kindest choice to relieve their suffering.
Recurrent or Untreatable Infections: If your pet suffers from frequent infections or complications that cannot be effectively treated, to the point where their body can no longer support them, euthanasia may be the kindest choice to relieve their suffering.
Advanced Age and Declining Vitality: If your pet is older and shows signs of irreversible decline in energy, health, and functionality, it may be time to consider a peaceful end.

While many of these factors are primarily health-related, what if your pet is otherwise healthy but has become vicious, dangerous, or unmanageable? Or what if your economic and emotional circumstances prevent you from providing your pet with the care they deserve? Some may immediately consider euthanasia; however, it is important to explore other options before making this decision. It’s essential to discuss your concerns with our veterinary team so we can help guide you in making the best choice for both your pet and your family. Ultimately, the decision to say goodbye is yours, and if you find yourself asking, ‘How do I know when it’s time?’, know that you are not alone in this difficult decision.

Preparing for Your Pet's Final Goodbye

Saying goodbye to a pet is an emotional experience for everyone, not just the pet owner. It is a significant moment, and it’s natural to feel grief, sadness, guilt, or confusion during this time. Everyone copes with this process in their own way, and we encourage you to do what feels right for you and your family. Once the euthanasia appointment has been made, you and your family may want to spend some final moments with your pet, and we highly encourage you to do so. We also suggest engaging in activities you all loved, creating meaningful memories in those last moments. If you feel comfortable, you may choose to be present during your pet’s euthanasia. However, if you prefer not to be there, you can say your goodbyes beforehand. Above all, do not let others pressure you into making decisions that may make you feel uncomfortable, as this is a deeply personal choice.

The Aftercare Process

After euthanasia is completed, pet owners have a variety of aftercare options to consider for their beloved companion. These may include cremation, with the cremated remains returned to you in a sealed urn, or burial through a pet cemetery. If you have any other preferences or options in mind, please let our veterinarians know, and we will guide you through these choices, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the decision that feels right for you and your pet. We are here to support you every step of the way.