No one wants to think about pet euthanasia. It's hard to know when the time is right to humanely end your pet's pain and suffering, and the death of a beloved animal companion is solemn for everyone involved. However, it may be less of a strain if you have prepared in advance for the euthanasia process and you know what to expect.
What is Euthanasia?
Euthanasia is defined as the act of humanely ending the life of a living being in order to end extreme suffering (often as the result of a serious and irreversible medical condition). In animals, euthanasia is often called "putting to sleep" or "putting down."
Why Vets Use Euthanasia
Euthanasia for pets is intended to end lives when animals are suffering and there is little or no hope of recovery from illness or injury. As a pet owner, the decision to euthanize can be very difficult to make. Your veterinarian will help guide you and your family through the decision-making process and help you keep the best interest of your pet in mind. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Rest assured, your decision is the right one if it's made with your pet's best interest in mind.
Once you have made the difficult choice of euthanasia for your pet, it is important that you know what to expect before, during, and after your pet is put down.
What to Expect Before the Euthanasia
First, decide if you would like to be present during the procedure. As hard as it may be to watch your pet pass away, remember that your presence will be a comfort in their final moments. Also, decide if you would like any family members or friends to be present.
Talk to your veterinarian about your decision, and ask any questions that come to mind. If you want euthanasia to take place at home, at-home pet euthanasia might be an option. Your vet might be able to recommend a mobile vet if they don't do house calls.
Ask about the vet's process during euthanasia. Be aware that there will likely be a consent form for you to sign before your vet can proceed.
Next, make a decision about aftercare and notify your vet. Many veterinary hospitals work with companies that can arrange for individual cremation (and, in some cases, burial). Some owners will opt for communal cremation (sometimes called group or mass cremation). In most cases, the cremation or burial company can pick up your pet's remains directly from the hospital.
Alternatively, you may wish to bring your pet's remains home so you can handle aftercare on your own.
Try to settle up the bill in advance. The last thing you will want is a tearful wait in the lobby to pay your bill after your pet is gone.
Most importantly, take the time to say goodbye. Talk to your pet, offer gentle rubs, and express your love in any way you can. You and your pet will find comfort in this.
What to Expect During the Euthanasia
In dogs and cats, euthanasia usually involves the intravenous injection of drugs that will quickly stop the heart. In most cases, this solution is predominantly made up of pentobarbital, though some euthanasia solutions also contain phenytoin. The most effective way to administer the solution is through a vein. Injection into a body cavity will often work, but not as quickly.
Your vet may prefer to have an intravenous catheter placed in your pet. This will allow easier access to the vein and make the injection process quick and painless. It may also help to decrease the chance of complications.
Many vets opt to administer a sedative prior to administering the actual euthanasia solution. This allows the pet to be extremely relaxed and sleepy before the next step. You may wish to say your goodbyes before the sedative is given as your pet may lose consciousness.
Finally, the euthanasia solution is injected into the pet's vein, where it rapidly travels throughout the body. Within seconds, the animal will become unconscious, experiencing no pain or suffering. Breathing will slow down and then stop over the next several seconds. Cardiac arrest will soon follow, resulting in death. Typically, a peaceful death occurs within 30 seconds of intravenous administration.
What to Expect After the Euthanasia
Once the solution has been administered, your vet will listen to your pet's heart to confirm death. Your vet will let you know that your pet has passed on. At this time, the vet will probably step out of the room to give you a few moments alone with your pet.
This is an emotional time, and the veterinary staff will provide plenty of tissues and privacy. You're in a safe environment where everyone understands what you're going through. Stay as long as you need. If you have already made aftercare and payment arrangements, you can simply slip out when you are ready.
Be aware that your pet's body may release urine, feces, and possibly other bodily fluids upon death. This occurs due to the relaxation of all muscles. Know that your pet's eyes will remain open. Sometimes, there are muscle spasms or sounds as the air and energy leave your pet's body. This does not mean your pet is still alive; it is simply part of the process that occurs after death.
Grieving the Loss of Your Pet
Now the process of grieving will begin. Grief is different for everyone, and there is no right or wrong way to do it. Remember the good times you had and know that your pet would thank you for relieving their suffering.
Consider doing something special to memorialize your unique and much-loved companion. For example, there are a variety of options for dog memorials. One idea is to make a clay or ink paw print and frame it next to a photo of your pet. You may wish to plant a tree or another plant in memory of your pet. Another therapeutic exercise during grief is to write about it. A poem, story, or written tribute can help you say goodbye to your beloved companion in words.