Knowing when an animal would benefit the most from a humane euthanasia is never easy. Our doctors are here to help answer the question
IS IT TIME?
An appointment allows the doctor to see the mental and physical state your pet is in to make the suggestion accurately. Do understand that you are not forced to make any decisions on the spot. For many of us, we need time to think things over, and that’s okay.
Paperwork & Process
Someone will be in shortly to go over paperwork and to discuss euthanasia and body care options. We hate to discuss money, especially at a time like this, so we try to make payment as easy as possible for you. If you’d like, they can take your card and process the payment for you or payment can be performed afterwards. We will accommodate to whatever you need during this time. After the paperwork, a technician will be in to go over the process with you. For some, this may be your first euthanasia, and we do not want to keep you in the dark. And for others, you are far too familiar with the process. Either way, we are here to make this as easy as possible.
Sedation
Your technician will bring in your pet’s sedation. We sedate your pet prior to euthanasia to decrease stress. In this way, they will be unaware of any needles and will know that they are taking a great nap surrounded with the people they love. This sedation commonly take 10-15 minutes to take full effect and will bring your pet into a deep and comfortable sleep. Some pets may pass with only the sedation; and that’s okay. This just means that they were ready to go.
Goodbyes
When your pet is fully sedated, your technician will return with the materials needed to place an intravenous catheter. This will allow your veterinarian access to your pet’s blood supply. With the sedation, your pet will be unable to feel any needles. Your technician will use a sterile flush to ensure the IV catheter is in place. It is important to remember that with the sedation and possible declined health of your pet, it may be difficult to place an IV catheter. Commonly their blood pressure is not the greatest and may either take a few tries or an alternative option such as a butterfly catheter. Your technician and veterinarian will discuss if they’re having any difficulty and explain what they are doing throughout the process. Once the catheter is placed, your technician will ask you if you’d like more time to spend with your pet or if you’d like the doctor to come in and give your pet the final injection. Remember, you are more than welcome to spend as much time with your pet as you wish. We understand how difficult this may be, and want you to have the best possible experience considering the circumstances.
Remembered
As you leave the room, we request that you turn off the lights and close the door to allow your pet privacy. Your technician will return to the room after you have left and respectfully cover your pet’s body with a soft blanket. There are many ways to remember a lost pet, please talk to your technician about our options.
