Euthanasia

Our pets are beloved members of our family and seeing them unwell can be heartbreaking. Unfortunately, there are some illnesses that pets are unable to recover from. In the case of terminal illness and/or debilitating pain, one of the kindest things that we can do for them is to relieve them of that burden by making the difficult decision to put them to sleep.
 

How do I know if it is the right time to consider euthanasia?

Your HomewardVet Veterinarian is the best person to advise you on when it is time to consider euthanizing your pet. However, there are some signs and symptoms to look for that would indicate that your pet is no longer experiencing a good quality of life. If you notice these, it would then be advisable to contact your veterinarian to determine if euthanasia would be the most humane course of action.

These signs include:

• Chronic labored breathing, breathlessness and/or coughing

• Chronic pain that cannot be controlled by medication (your veterinarian can advise if this is the case)

• Frequent diarrhea and/or vomiting that leads to dehydration or severe weight loss

• Inability to stand or move around

• Disinterest in food or eating

• Incontinent to the stage where they are frequently soiling themselves

• No interest in communication with family members, treats, games, or other previously enjoyed activity

• Zest for life is non-existent
   

While euthanasia is never an easy decision to make, a small benefit is that it allows family members the time to say their final goodbyes. This opportunity for final displays of love and affection with their pets helps to ease them into the grieving process. It is especially important to prepare young children as this may be their first experience of bereavement.

You are welcome to be present during your pet’s euthanasia to provide comfort and support in their final moments. If you prefer not to be present, please know that our team will ensure your pet is treated with the utmost compassion and care throughout the procedure. For very young children, we generally recommend they not be present, as this experience can be difficult for them.

What happens during the euthanasia procedure?

Understanding what happens during a euthanasia procedure before the actual event can be beneficial. Not only will you understand the medical process, but you can be comforted by the knowledge that the way in which your pet will be put to sleep will be peaceful and completely pain-free. Your veterinarian will explain the entire procedure to you, but if you require further clarification of any part of the process, please don't hesitate to ask.

Your pet will be on the floor in a comfortable space in your home, surrounded by their favorite blanket or bed. A veterinary technician will be there to gently hold and support them, and you are welcome to sit or rest right next to your pet, wherever you feel most at ease.

Most often, an IV catheter is placed in a front or rear leg to ensure the vein remains stable during the procedure. Before the euthanasia drug is given, your pet will receive a sedative that places them in a deep, peaceful anesthetic state. In this state, they may be aware of your presence and hear your voice, but they will not feel any pain or discomfort. Once your pet is fully relaxed, the veterinarian will administer an overdose of sodium pentobarbital, or another anesthetic drug, which will gently bring them into unconsciousness before safely and peacefully stopping the heart.

Your veterinarian will then use a stethoscope to confirm that the heart has stopped beating. For a few minutes after the process, you may witness involuntary muscle twitching or breathing from your pet and the bladder and bowels may release. These are all perfectly normal occurrences with no cause for concern. You are then usually given the option to spend a few minutes alone with your pet.
 

Cremation or Burial

Ahead of the euthanasia process, you will be asked whether you would prefer for your pet to be cremated or prepared for burial. Cremation is a very popular option, after which you can scatter your pet's ashes in their favorite walking spot, keep them in an urn, or arrange for them to be made into jewelry or a paperweight.

Alternatively, you may wish to bury your pet. If you want to bury your pet at home, be sure to check any local ordinances for restrictions. There are also pet cemeteries located across the US, which your veterinarian should be able to advise you on where to find the closest one.