Euthanasia & Cremation
The Decision Making Process
Euthanasia involves decisions about what will be best for you and your pet. A dignified, painless passing can be our final gift to a devoted companion, and by taking control and making decisions that are best for you and your pet, you will be able to say goodbye gracefully. Deciding to end the life of your pet isn’t easy under any circumstances. When is it time to let go? Is there a right time? This decision making process is different for every pet and every owner. Has your pet’s quality of life diminished, either mentally or physically, to the point where you know there is suffering, when your companion is no longer enjoying life? Beck Veterinary can assist you in answering these difficult questions.
Cremation
Prior to euthanasia, you should discuss with your veterinarian options for body care. You might decide on burial or you may ask your veterinarian to take care of the body. You can request a private cremation (your pet’s ashes will be returned to you), or a cremation with other pets. Because the private cremation is carried out for a single pet only, it can be more costly. The staff can go over these costs with you.
Do You Want To Be Present During Euthanasia
Some people feel it is important for their pet that they be present. Others feel that their anxiety will stress their pet unnecessarily. You may decide to stay and then realize you are unable to. Whatever your initial decision, you have the option to stay or leave at any point. Understanding the procedure and knowing what to expect can help you make a decision that’s best for both of you.
Euthanasia
You will have some private time with them. For the actual euthanasia, an intravenous injection of a very strong anesthetic solution is given. Your veterinarian may choose to place an intravenous catheter prior to giving the injection for ease in accessing the vein. The only discomfort your pet will feel is the prick of the needle – no different than taking a blood sample. Once your veterinarian commences with the intravenous injection, the process is very swift. Within seconds of administration, the overdose of anesthetic stops the function of your pet’s brain and heart as he slips into a final ‘sleep’. Your veterinarian will check to see that your pet’s heart has stopped and will tell you he has passed away. At this time, you may want to spend a few moments with your companion to say goodbye. Several things that can happen during euthanasia can be quite disconcerting if you don’t expect them. Your pet’s bladder and bowels may release following death. Some dogs have ‘phantom breaths’ or muscle twitches. These are only muscle reflexes. Also, your pet’s eyes will not close. The euthanasia process is not just about giving an injection. There are a lot of decisions that must be made. You need to consider what is best for both you and your pet. You also need to feel comfortable with how your pet will spend his final moments. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
