Euthanasia: A Hard Answer for a Dog with Terminal Illness
September 20, 2009
Nobody every wants to consider resorting to euthanasia, but there are occasions when some dog owners need to confront the most difficult decision of all. For an old dog with a terminal illness, such as untreatable and aggressive cancer, euthanasia may be an inevitable choice to limit their suffering. There is no preparation that will make this issue any easier. Sometimes life just hurts.
Is it Really Time?
This is the most difficult and emotional decision any dog owner will ever have to make. You’re likely beating yourself up, going back and forth. That’s why it’s imperative to communicate with your vet and really pay attention to their advice. If your dog is at an age where illness means constant untreatable pain and daily life is something to be endured rather than enjoyed, then it may be time to just let go.
This should only be considered when all dog medication and treatment options have been considered and your vet has informed you that they will make little or no difference for your dog’s condition. If you have a family, especially if children are involved, it is also something that should be discussed openly so that everyone has time to mentally and emotionally prepare. Everyone should have a fair chance to say their goodbyes.
The Plans You Never Wanted to Make
Your vet is priceless in this trying time because even though they care a lot about animals they will give you an honest and professional opinion on the option of euthanasia and may also provide you with options regarding where the procedure is carried out.
While most euthanasia operations are carried out in the operating theater, your vet may be able to carry it out in your home or refer you to a vet that can if this is preferred. Such arrangements can be less stressful for your dog and help to ease your mind as well.
You may also want to consider if you want to be present when the procedure is carried out and specify what you wish to do with your dog’s body. Some owners cannot take the stress of being there when it happens; others feel obliged to not let their dog go through it alone. Neither decision is wrong. It simply depends on you, your dog, and your spiritual beliefs.
What is Involved? Is it Painful?
Leading scientists have done everything they can to create a procedure that involves zero suffering so your pet can move on to wherever they go and leave their present suffering behind.
Euthanasia procedures involve making your pet unconscious through an injection before stopping its heart. At no time will the animal feel pain. The procedure is swift and as humane as possible, taking only a few seconds. As the animal falls asleep, the vet will cover them out of respect.
No amount of advice can make this decision any easier for you but you should remember that as a responsible dog owner you need to make the best decisions for your pet. Quality of life should always be foremost in your mind.
Comments
Got something to say?