Euthanasia Process

​We know that this is a difficult decision to reach, and we are here to discuss options and provide reassurance that you are making the correct decision. We commonly schedule appointments that are quality of life consultations. At these appointments, we may offer options such as medications or environmental changes that improve the pet's quality of life. However, sometimes after discussion, we elect to move forward with euthanasia.

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Once the decision of euthanasia is chosen (either during a quality of life consultation or otherwise), I always accept payment first. This is so that we can more fully focus on your pet during the process and your mental health afterwards.

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Next, I verbally explain the process and answer any questions that you have. It is typically a series of two injections. The first injection is an anesthetic, so it is similar to what the animal would receive if it was going under anesthesia for surgery. The pain level is similar to a person receiving a vaccine injection. It generally takes around 5-10 minutes for them to go to sleep. However, some do take longer and some also need an additional dose. This is animal dependent as the drugs take longer to process in the body of some due to organ insufficiency and other factors.

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Once I feel that they are unconscious enough, I will ask if you are ok with me proceeding. The second injection requires access to a vein which can be difficult due to blood pressure, dehydration, and other factors. This is one of the reasons that I want your pet to be unconscious. Once I obtain permission to proceed, I then place a temporary IV catheter and push the solution followed by sterile water. This injection works very quickly, so I then listen to the heart and let you know when there is no longer a heartbeat present. Just like the anesthetic, some animals also need additional solution.

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Animals may lose control of their urination and bowel during the process, so I always recommend pee pads or blankets to go under them. Also, most don't close their eyes even after they have passed.