All About Pet Euthanasia

 
 
 
 For many pet owners, a time may come where they have to decide whether their loyal friend is suffering too much and has little-to-no quality of life.

Euthanasia, be it at home or at the vet, is an option to consider towards the end of your pet’s life. If your pet is terminally unwell, your vet may speak to you about the possibility of ending their suffering.

There are a number of reasons why euthanasia is discussed, including terminal illnesses, debilitating conditions or not recovering from an accident. Keep reading to find out what is pet euthanasia, how to know when it's time to say goodbye and who to speak to when the time comes.

 

What is euthanasia?

Literally meaning “gentle death”, euthanasia is the process that ends your pet’s life peacefully and painlessly. You may hear euthanasia referred to as “put to sleep” or “put down”.

If you are considering euthanasia for your pet, speak with your vet as they are best placed to advise on your pet’s quality of life and suffering.

Your vet will review your pet's health and based on this, will administer the appropriate euthanasia protocol to ensure they drift away in peace and comfort.

When it's time to say goodbye

Choosing to euthanise a pet is possibly the hardest decision a pet owner has to make. When a senior or sick pet, it can be hard to know when the right is time to say farewell. Your vet will advise when your pet is suffering too much.

Your vet will work with you and your family to ensure all viable treatment options are exhausted before considering euthanasia.

There can be a temptation to prolong your pet’s life for the sake of the family; however, you must remember that there comes a time where a sick or senior pet has a poor quality of life. Only your vet is qualified to support you in making this decision.

Euthanasia can be carried out at home or at the vet clinic, depending on what your vet offers. Both choices have their benefits. Express your wishes to your vet ahead of time to ensure your needs are met when the time comes.

For more information and tips on how to know it’s time to let go, take a look at our guide on euthanasia.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.

In-home Euthanasia

The option of in-home euthanasia can provide some extra comfort for your companion during their final hours. Your Veterinarian will be able to provide further information about this service. Patch & Purr are able to work with your Veterinarian to attend at a respectful time after the euanasia has taken place to bring your beloved pet into our care.

 

The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.

 

Grief factsheets

If you’re in need of some extra support in the days and weeks following your pet’s passing, take a look at these handy guides written by leading figure in grief and empathy education and author of "When Pets Die: It's Alright To Grieve,"  Doris Zagdanski. 

Contact Us

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