Making the decision and scheduling an appointment day and time is the beginning of the euthanasia process. This can be the most difficult first step. Much of the time this occurs, understandably, with short notice. Once an appointment is made the necessary information is collected in advance, as follows:
Owner’s full name, address and contact phone number; pet’s name, species, weight, and temperament; regular veterinary practice name; whether assistance is required with cremation arrangements and if so, whether the choice is for a private cremation (individual with ashes returned) or a communal cremation (no ashes returned).
For CATS that are feisty, nervous or fearful, gabapentin given orally two hours before the appointment is advised, and a prescription can be called into a regular pharmacy. If the temperament is generally compliant, no gabapentin is generally given. I arrive at the home with all pharmaceuticals prepared in advance. An intramuscular injection for sedation is given slowly to avoid discomfort after which heavy sedation/light anesthesia is achieved within about five minutes. Following this, a small area of fur is clipped on the inside of a hind leg vein and a final intravenous injection is given with an almost immediate effect. I encourage allowing the patients to be where they are comfortable and happy for the procedure. It is noteworthy, however, to be aware that urination may occur after the final injection.
For DOGS that are fearful, anxious or reactive, gabapentin, trazodone or both, given orally the night before and the morning of the appointment, is advised, and again, a prescription can be called into a regular pharmacy. I arrive at the home with all pharmaceuticals prepared in advance. An intramuscular injection is given for sedation and it generally reaches its full effect of a deep sleep withing fifteen minutes. Dogs are often easily distracted by the freeze dried liver treats that I bring, resulting in rapport with me, and indifference to the injection. For small dogs, once asleep, a small area of fur is clipped on the outside of a hind leg vein, and a final intravenous injection is given. For medium and large breeds, an intravenous catheter is placed in the vein through which the final injection is given. There may be several heavy breaths before breathing stops within about thirty to sixty seconds. Urination may occur. As with cats, though, I like dogs to be where they are happy for the procedure.
CHILDREN AND OTHER PETS
I believe a conversation with children of all ages about euthanasia of their pet is advisable, however each child is different, and parents are in the best position to make this decision. I welcome children to be present if that is their wish. In my experience, children often want to be with their ‘friend’ at the end, and although they grieve in their own ways, they are grateful they could attend.
Dogs and cats do have their own bonds with one another and they do grieve as well. I don’t know if allowing them to be present during the euthanasia process is helpful, but they are welcome. If dogs are young, curious and energetic it may be necessary to leash them for some parts of the process because they become excited by a new person in the home, especially a new person with treats, and this can pose some challenges.
AFTERWARD
If a home burial is planned, I help prepare the patient if needed and discuss postmortem changes that may be expected. When I am to assist with cremation arrangements, if the family wishes to have private time with the pet afterward, I wait in my vehicle until they are ready for me to transport the patient to the crematorium in a basket. If ashes are requested, I return with the ashes once they are ready. Below is a link to Until We Meet Again. I work with this center because of their integrity and respectful care.
https://www.gatewaypetmemorial.com/
TRIBUTES
Children often draw pictures to be cremated with their pets, and both children and adults often want to have their pets remembered in a variety of ways. The Tributes page is a place to remember if you wish to do so. Photos and stories are wonderful ways to share with others a life to celebrate.