How do I know when it’s time?
What to expect at my pet's euthanasia appointment
Did you know that the word, Euthanasia, means 'good death'?
If you're able to plan for your pet's euthanasia, whether at home, or at your veterinary clinic, your vet will explain the procedure beforehand, and answer any questions you may have. Here's what you can typically expect:
Consent: You may be asked to sign a euthanasia consent form.
Presence: You can choose to comfort your pet during the procedure.
Euthanasia procedure: Your pet will first receive a sedative to help them to relax. Then, a solution will be administered to painlessly stop their heart. The don't feel any pain during this time.
Aftercare: Your vet will discuss your cremation and memorialization preferences with you. To ease the emotional strain at this time, we recommend having your plan prepared in advance, so you can provide it to your vet instead of making decisions in the moment.
Knowing when it's time
Assessing your pet's quality of life is a good place to start when you're faced with deciding to share a final goodbye. Although it varies for each pet, signs of poor quality of life can include some significant physical symptoms, e.g.:
Being in visible pain
Having difficulty breathing
There are also more subtle ways animals communicate their diminishing quality of life. Try these exercises to assess how your pet is feeling:
Look at old photographs or videos of your pet, to remember how they used to look and behave.
Make a list of activities your pet always enjoyed and consider whether they still seem to enjoy them.
Track their 'good' and 'bad' days on a calendar. Do their bad days outnumber their good days?