Tahmoor
Clinic
02 4683
1918
Thirlmere
Clinic
02 4681 8470
When an owner and veterinarian decide that a pet
is suffering or unlikely to make a recovery, euthanasia offers a
way to end a pet's pain.
The decision is difficult for both the owner and the veterinarian, but we should recognise that sometimes this is the kindest thing we can do in the final stage of a pet's life.
Understanding how the procedure is performed may
help an owner in this difficult decision. It may also help an owner
decide whether they wish to be present during the
euthanasia.
Initially, a pet is made as comfortable as
possible. Some owners may prefer to have a euthanasia performed at
their home. If the animal is brought to the vet clinic, we try to
book the appointment at a quiet time of day when the pet and their
owner will feel more at at ease.
The euthanasia solution is a barbiturate in the
same class of drugs that can be used for general anesthesia. At a
much higher dose, this solution provides not only the same effects
as general anesthesia (loss of consciousness and loss of pain
sensation), but totally suppresses the cardiovascular and
respiratory systems.
The veterinary nurse supports the pet's forearm
and as the solution is injected, the animal quickly loses
consciousness and within a minute or less the heart and lungs stop
functioning.
Since the pet is not conscious, they do not feel
anything. Most times, the animal passes away very smoothly, and
then the veterinarian listens for absence of a heartbeat. The eyes
will remain open in most cases. Sometimes, a few last breaths occur
after the heart has stopped as these breaths are caused by
involuntary and reflex muscle contractions, but again, the pet has
no awareness at this point.
After the animal dies, there is complete muscle relaxation, often accompanied by urination and defecation. This is completely normal and is something an owner should expect. In addition, after death, chemicals stored in nerve endings may release causing occasional muscle twitching in the early post-mortem period. Many owners who choose to stay with their pets are surprised how quickly and easily their pet is put to rest.
The decision to stay or not stay with a pet is a
very personal one. Some owners feel they could comfort their pet in
its final minutes. Others feel their emotional state will upset
their pet. Whether an owner is in the room or not during the
euthanasia, owners can always have some time with the pet's body if
they wish after the procedure is complete.
Euthanasia is emotional for veterinarians as
well. Sometimes, the veterinarian has known the pet for a long time
or has tried very hard to make the animal well
again.
If you have any questions regarding the decision to euthanase or the process of euthanasia, please don't hesitate to contact us.
IMPORTANT.
Please note email messages are opened on weekdays during normal
business hours
For urgent enquiries contact the veterinary
clinic directly on the phone numbers listed
below