How to Prepare for Euthanizing a Pet

Deciding to euthanize a pet is an agonizing process. You will likely experience a wide range of complicated emotions as the time comes to put your pet down. It's important that you are prepared for this trying event and deal with the feelings as they come.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss the euthanization. There is great fear in not knowing what will occur on the day of the euthanization. Discuss details with your vet and ask any questions you may have. Veterinarians are very familiar with the experience and should be able to talk with you about the process and feelings that go along with it.

2. Spend time with your pet in the weeks or days leading up to the euthanasia. This time will be very special for both of you. You will undoubtedly feel very emotional and sad about the upcoming procedure but try to remain in control. Your pet will pick up on your feelings and you want this time to be as enjoyable as possible for her.

3. Decide whether you would like to be there during euthanasia. Some people wish to be with their pet and officially say goodbye during the final moments. Others feel that the experience may be too much to handle in person. Whether you choose to be with your pet or not, rest assured that you have given him a lifetime of love. Either decision you make is appropriate.

4. Map out time to spend with your pet directly before the procedure. If you choose to not be in the room, you can have still have some private time with your pet beforehand. It is sometimes helpful to say goodbye in this final setting.

5. Talk to your family about euthanasia. Everyone should be able to share their thoughts and feelings on the process, and ultimately decide if they would like to be present or not. If young children are in the family, it is usually recommended that those under the age of eight are not in the room for the procedure. If the children are over eight, discuss the possibility of being present with the entire family. It can be a traumatic experience so fully consider the outcomes prior to deciding.

6. Talk to your veterinarian about where the euthanasia will take place. Most commonly, it is done in the vet's office, however, some vets do make house calls. In such cases, the vet can come to your home or other preferred location to perform the euthanasia. If you are opting to have it performed in the veterinarian's office, choose an appointment time toward the end of the business day. The office is usually calmer at that time and you do not want to feel rushed at all during this delicate time.

7. Say goodbye to your pet. Take a few final moments to express your feelings for your pet. Don't be afraid to hug, pet and touch him. Do whatever you need to do to say goodbye. Take comfort in the fact that they do not know or understand what is going on.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many remembrance options after your pet has passed. You may wish to bury your pet on your property or in a pet cemetery. You may also cremate your pet and keep the ashes or scatter them in her favorite spot. Take time with these decisions.
• Bring a friend with you when your pet is euthanized. It is helpful to have support there.
• Be aware that you will feel a wide scope of emotions before, during and after the euthanasia. Allow yourself to grieve for your pet. You have lost a special part of your life and you need to grieve properly.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Ask a Dog Vet Online Now

[joebowden]

on 7/4/2009 im just the same as efirebird68 tears everywhere. but it is a important yet contravertial topic that needs carefull consideration

[efirebird68]

on 11/4/2008 Thank you for the above. I was in tears just trying to read your article. It certainly helped me prepare for the inevitable.