- Dogs are euthanized with an overdose injection of Pentobarbital, a liquid barbiturate commonly used to induce unconsciosness during surgery. The dog will basically drift into a deep sleep, that will ultimately halt the breathing and cause cardiac arrest, thus the terminology ''to put to sleep."
- Because the euthanasia solution depresses the central nervous system, the only pain the dog will most likely feel is the needle prick when the solution is injected.
- After the injection is given, the dog will drift into a deep sleep within ten seconds, in the same way a human becomes unconscious before surgery.
- In some cases, dogs may exhibit automatic nerve reflexes after they pass on. These consist of involuntary muscle twitches or loss of bladder/bowel control. The eyes in most cases stay open. Owners opting to stay during the procedure should be aware of these involuntary spasms.
- Owners of euthanized pets are given usually three options for the disposal of their dog's body: burial, private cremation and communal cremation. Consent forms are usually given prior to the procedure.
