Sadly, there comes a time in the life of all pets when the possibility of a recovery to a comfortable existence is highly unlikely. Caretakers of an animal must at this time consider all possibilities to relieve the pet's suffering.
One option is the palliation of symptoms. Proper nursing care is critical when patients cannot care for themselves. Providing proper nutrition, hydration, warmth, and skin care provide comfort. Pain, nausea, digestive irregularities, respiratory congestion, and movement limitations should be medically addressed. When proper care is provided, the final days of life can provide solace to the caretakers.
Often medical intervention may not provide a level of comfort acceptable to the animal's caretakers. Euthanasia is often considered in these circumstances. The decision to euthanize a beloved pet is among the most difficult choices a pet owner ever has to make. Consultation with a veterinarian will help owners determine whether euthanasia is appropriate and when that might occur.
Prior to euthanasia, pet owners should decide how the pet's body will be cared for. This reduces the emotional stress at the time of the procedure. Our hospital provides a range of respectful options, from burial to private cremation. Pet owners are free to be present at the time of the procedure or leave depending on their preference.
In a quiet and comfortable environment, euthanasia is performed by a veterinarian with the injection of an anesthetic overdose into a vein through an IV catheter. The patient passes quickly. Because an anesthetic is used, your pet perceives no discomfort. The veterinarian will insure that the heart, pulses, and breathing have stopped. Through consultation with the veterinarian and the hospital staff, the last days of a pet's life can be comfortable and can reflect the care and love that the pet has experienced throughout its entire life.
Primary Care
Pet Resort
