Euthanasia: Having to Face the Inevitable

Making the Decision to Euthanize Your Dog

Losing a beloved pet is hard enough, but deciding to euthanize your pet can be even more difficult. Some pet owners may choose not to euthanize their pet and instead make their home as comfortable as possible for their pet’s last remaining days. Whichever choice you make, read these tips below to ensure your pet rests easy.

How to Make Your Home Comfortable for Your Pet

When making your home comfortable for your pet, make sure to surround him with his favorite toys and blankets. The blankets should be soft with lots of cushion. If your pet is unable to move much, he may develop sores on certain parts of his body, so provide a comfortable lounging option for him. Some pets may also no longer be able to control their bladder. If this is the case for your pet, check your pet regularly, so he’s not lying in soiled blankets. You can use puppy pads, which you place under your pet in case any accidents should occur. There are doggy bands and doggy diapers as well.

To let an animal die naturally might not always be the best option, as it may involve seizures, starvation, dehydration or hemorrhages. All of these can cause your pet a long process of pain. In addition, your pet may change in behavior or appearance. You may witness excessive panting, irregular breathing, lethargy, seclusion, loss of appetite or loss of energy. If you have other pets in the house, they may even start to show changes in their behaviors as well due to the ill pet.

If you’re ever unsure of how your pet is doing, take him to the veterinarian. The problem may look worse than it really is, so it’s always best to seek professional help.

When to Consider Euthanasia

Euthanasia is a painless procedure and done very quickly. You may want to consider euthanasia, if the:

• Problem persists
• Medicine doesn’t seem to be working
• Pet appears to be in pain
• Veterinarian has suggested euthanasia

Once the decision is made to euthanize your pet, the next question will be whether or not you should be present. Some feel staying with your pet during the euthanasia process offers your companion love and comfort for the remaining seconds of his life. In contrast, some pet owners find staying with their pet during euthanasia is more difficult and might not handle it well. For this reason, they might choose to not be present.

Although no one wants to ever think about what might happen the day he loses a loved one, it’s best to know all your options now and plan for the inevitable ahead of time.

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