A time to say goodbye
Euthanasia
Euthanasia or “putting an animal to sleep” is the most difficult decision you as a pet owner will ever have to make.
This saddening decision may come after the diagnosis of an untreatable condition, if treatment is not working or to prevent long term pain and suffering.
Our vets are available to discuss this decision and help advise you when making this difficult choice.
How can I prepare?
- Consider when to make your appointment, at a time when you feel ready. The practice tries to arrange a quiet time of the day and a longer appointment to avoid undue stress.
- Consider whether you would prefer a house visit, we would be happy to arrange this for you.
- Would you like to be present at the time? Many people find it too distressing to be there, this is nothing to feel guilty about.
- Consider what arrangements you would prefer for after they are “put to sleep”. There are several options:
- Standard cremation, a small amount of ash is scattered in the memorial garden, which is open to visitors.
- Or Individual cremation with ashes returned to you in a casket/urn with a floral tribute.
What actually happens?
The “procedure” is very simple and painless and it is your veterinary surgeon’s job to make it as stress-free as possible.
- If appropriate a sedative injection can be given into your pet’s back muscle first to relax him/her. This can take a few minutes to take effect.
- You will be asked to sign a form to give your consent for the euthanasia.
- A veterinary nurse will usually be available to assist the vet.
- A small area of fur is clipped from a front leg which is then swabbed with surgical spirit.
- An overdose of an anaesthetic agent is given by injection into the leg vein.
- Although the injection is not painful, some animals may feel a small prick of the needle.
- Unconsciousness and death occur within seconds and your vet will listen for the absence of a heart beat to confirm this.
- Sometimes they take a deep breath and lose control of their bladder and bowels, this is nothing to be scared about.
