Euthanasia: The Difficult Choice

For a pet-lover, no decision is more difficult than authorizing euthanasia. Yet, frequently, this is the right choice for your pet. Certainly, the humane procedures offered at modern veterinary clinics have a clear advantage over an illness that prolongs the suffering of both pet and pet owner.  Discuss euthanasia frankly with your veterinarian. 

Many pet owners choose to spend the final moments with their pets.  If so, the veterinarian might prefer to prepare the pet briefly in another room. If you should choose this, you should know the intravenous drug does not cause any pain.  You might wish to stroke the animal's head and speak gently as the drug is administered. The pet simply goes quietly to sleep as bodily functions cease. 

Some pet owners choose not to witness the procedure and prefer a last 'good-bye' after their  companion passes on.  In these circumstances, many pet cemeteries provide for after care of the pet for your viewing prior to cremation or burial.

"All veterinarians and there are no exceptions; dislike having to do this painless as it is, but there has always been a comfort in the knowledge that the last thing these helpless animals knew was the sound of a friendly voice and the touch of a gentle hand."