Losing a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult experience for any pet owner. When the time comes to make the heart-wrenching decision of euthanasia, many pet owners grapple with whether they should be present during the procedure. This blog aims to explore the emotional and practical aspects of staying with your pet during euthanasia, both at home and at a veterinary clinic.
Understanding Euthanasia:
Euthanasia comes from the greek words eu meaning “good” or “well” and thanatos meaning “death”; giving us the meaning: a good death. Euthanasia is a humane way to end an animal’s suffering when their quality of life has significantly deteriorated due to illness, injury, or generalized declining health. Euthanasia may be carried out by different procedures depending on the setting and species of animal. The procedure is typically performed by a veterinarian; however in some settings, such as shelters,a highly trained professional may perform the procedure under the supervision of a veterinarian. When considering household pets, the procedure involves a veterinarian administering calming medications followed by a painless final injection that peacefully puts the animal to sleep.
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
It can be helpful to discuss the euthanasia procedure with your veterinarian beforehand to understand what to expect and address any concerns you may have in advance. Let them know if you have a needle phobia or become uneasy around medical equipment such as syringes and stethoscopes. Your veterinarian may recommend having you step out while the pet is receiving injections and call you back in once the pet is resting peacefully. Your veterinarian may take a slightly different approach in tailoring the medications to your pet’s needs than they would use otherwise. Feel free to ask how many steps will be involved and what to expect with each one, this can be helpful in preparing mentally for what to expect. Finally, you may wish to mentally prepare by asking about possible physical changes such as muscle twitches or reflexive breaths. The end of life, much like the beginning, can be unique for each individual. Your veterinarian is trained in how to read these changes and how to respond if necessary.
Euthanizing Your Pet at Home:
Many pet owners choose to have euthanasia performed in the comfort of their own home. This option allows for a more familiar and relaxed environment, which can help reduce stress for both the pet and their people. People often state they wish their pet would fall asleep and not wake up. At-home pet euthanasia allows this to happen with the assistance of medication, pets can snuggle up in their favorite spot as the calming medications lull them into a peaceful sleep.
Euthanizing Your Pet at the Vet Clinic:
Some owners prefer to have euthanasia performed at a veterinary clinic. Many pet parents have been through the process at a clinic with a previous pet and take comfort in the familiarity. Often, pet’s have been patients of a particular hospital or clinic for many years and have developed relationships with the staff. Veterinary nurses and receptionists sometimes keep a stash of “forbidden” treats such as chocolate as a farewell to beloved patients. Staying with your pet at the vet clinic during euthanasia allows you to be present for their final moments while benefiting from the support of the veterinary team who has grown to love your pet too.
Factors to Consider:
When deciding whether to stay with your pet during euthanasia, it is essential to consider various factors:
1. Emotional Preparedness: Witnessing euthanasia can be emotionally challenging. Reflect on your emotional state and determine if you are ready to be present during this process. And know that you can step out and return later or after the procedure if need be.
2. Personal Comfort: Consider where you and your pet feel most comfortable. Some pets may find solace in familiar surroundings, while others may feel more secure in a clinical setting.
3. Support System: Evaluate the availability of emotional support from loved ones or professionals who can help you cope with the grief and loss associated with euthanasia.
No Wrong Answer:
Deciding whether to stay with your pet during euthanasia is a deeply personal choice that should be made based on what feels right for both you and your pet. Whether you choose to be present at home or at a veterinary clinic, prioritize your pet’s well-being and ensure that you have the necessary emotional support throughout the process.
It can help to think through what will happen after the procedure is completed and what you want for your final image of your pet. In both at-home euthanasia and in-clinic euthanasia your options for aftercare are the same: you may bury your pet at home (check local regulations) or have them cremated with or without ashes returned. If you opt for cremation, your final image of your pet may be of them resting at the clinic in the exam room, then you leave when you are ready. With at-home euthanasia your last image can be of your pet in the home or pallbearing them to the veterinarian’s vehicle (usually in a stretcher or a small pet bed).
Remember, there is no right or wrong decision when it comes to staying with your pet during euthanasia. What matters most is that you approach this difficult time with compassion, love, and understanding both for your beloved companion and for yourself.
Leave a Reply