![]() Whenever I diagnose one of my own patients with an illness or discuss the delicate topic of euthanasia with a client, I always say that we work as a team: I have the medical knowledge, but my client is the one who knows his or her pet better than anyone in the world. I am very much a quality of life minded person rather than focusing only on quantity, or the years of a pet’s life. Instead, my presumption as a veterinary writer is to surmise that my readers are considering euthanasia as a kind means of alleviating their pets’ pain or poor quality of life in the face of an incurable disease or mortal injury. This article is not the proper platform for discussing the reasons why a pet owner may be considering euthanizing a pet. The decision to say goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but alleviating a pet’s suffering by opting for euthanasia can be the kindest last decision we can make for the welfare of the pets in our care. Simply “letting nature take its course” can cause your pet unnecessary pain. The Meowing Vet explains what to expect if you are faced with the decision of euthanizing a beloved pet.Īfter the traumatic experience of watching human loved ones linger in pain secondary to terminal illnesses, I feel blessed to be part of a healthcare profession with a euthanasia option to provide for the well-being of my animal patients. Though saying goodbye to your animal friend may not be any easier, preparing for the selfless act of euthanasia to alleviate your pet’s suffering will help reduce some of your anxiety about the procedure. However, as both a veterinarian and as a dog and cat owner who has been through the difficult decision of putting a pet to sleep, I realize how important understanding the euthanasia process is for fellow pet owners. ![]() For support processing thoughts and emotions and anticipatory grief, reach out to a local mental health provider, a pet loss or grief counselor, a veterinary social worker, or pet loss helpline.PRINT I’ve been dreading writing this article on pet euthanasia for quite some time. When situations do not go as planned, communicating openly with your veterinary care team will enable you to answer any questions. Your experience may bring up thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to process at any point on your journey. At-home euthanasia is available in some areas as well. When possible, you may want to consider who you would like to support you and/or be present before, during, and after the process of humane euthanasia if you will be at a clinic.Ohio State's How Do I Know When It's Time? gives you some questions to ask yourself which are helpful when if you are feeling overwhelmed.She provides tracking logs and information about the humane euthanasia process for owners to be informed when that time comes. In, Facing Farewell by Julie Reck, DVM , she describes the benefit of understanding your animal's disease process and considering the human experience of the same illness.There are many scales available, such as the HHHHHM Scale, HuMane Care Quality of Life Assessment Aid, or Journey's Quality of Life Scale for Pets. Track changes in your animal's quality of life and functioning.Talking through your concerns can bring great relief. ![]() Ask the veterinary medical team your questions as they may not know the fears and worries you have unless you share.This can be an overwhelming experience however, seeking support helps owners during this difficult time to better understand their situation and make the best possible decisions. Dani McVety shares insights from quality of life to quality of death considerations. Lap of Love provides numerous resources and education to help animal owners sort through the difficult decisions of "knowing when".
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