WHAT HAPPENS DURING A PET EUTHANASIA?
Below, we answer a number of frequently asked questions. If you have others, be sure to give us a call, we’ll do our best to help you understand everything you want to know about this process.
AM I ABLE TO STAY WITH MY PET DURING THE EUTHANASIA PROCEDURE?
Yes, you are welcome to stay for as much of the procedure as you are comfortable with. It is your personal decision.
SHOULD CHILDREN BE PRESENT DURING THE EUTHANASIA?
Ultimately this is a decision for you as a parent, and the answer may vary depending on the age of your child. In our experience it is always good for children to have an opportunity to say goodbye to their pet. Those older than 5 or 6 years of age appear to be extremely resilient, whilst those under this age seem to be unsure about what’s happening, and to be more upset by their parent’s emotions.
WILL EUTHANASIA 'HURT'?
No, euthanasia does not hurt. The medication used is an overdose of anaesthesia and your pet will not feel any discomfort.
HOW LONG DOES EUTHANASIA TAKE?
The final injection is very fast acting and takes effect in about 30-60 seconds. The euthanasia solution stops all brain function. The brain cannot send signals to the heart or lungs and these organs will slowly stop working. The important part is that the brain is shut off first (like going “under” for surgery). Note, unlike in humans, your pet’s eyes will not close.
Afterwards, our vet can step out to give you time alone with your pet. If aftercare is elected, we will arrange for the cremation process.
SHOULD OTHER PETS BE PRESENT DURING A EUTHANASIA?
It is our experience that other household pets absolutely need time to say goodbye, as long as they are not upsetting to their sick housemate. You may notice that they’re not themselves for a day or so afterwards, but when allowed to say goodbye animals tend to find closure. The reactions of your other pets will vary. Some may appear to ignore their friend who has passed. They have taken in the situation, even though they show no reaction. On the other hand, other pets might shake or cry. Pay attention to your remaining pets and be close to them.
WHY SHOULD I EUTHANISE MY PET? IS “DYING NATURALLY” A BETTER OPTION?
Most diseases will not ‘instantly’ take the life of your pet. Arthritis and kidney disease are common ailments that our pets suffer from and both of these diseases can lead to a long and painful end of life process. When appropriate, euthanasia can help your pet pass before they experience too much discomfort from a disease they cannot recover from. It’s important to remember that each disease process must be handled differently. Please speak with us to discuss your pet’s situation.
Contact Us - we are here for you and your pet
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Below, we answer a number of frequently asked questions. If you have others, be sure to give us a call, we’ll do our best to help you understand everything you want to know about this process.
AM I ABLE TO STAY WITH MY PET DURING THE EUTHANASIA PROCEDURE?
Yes, you are welcome to stay for as much of the procedure as you are comfortable with. It is your personal decision.
SHOULD CHILDREN BE PRESENT DURING THE EUTHANASIA?
Ultimately this is a decision for you as a parent, and the answer may vary depending on the age of your child. In our experience it is always good for children to have an opportunity to say goodbye to their pet. Those older than 5 or 6 years of age appear to be extremely resilient, whilst those under this age seem to be unsure about what’s happening, and to be more upset by their parent’s emotions.
WILL EUTHANASIA 'HURT'?
No, euthanasia does not hurt. The medication used is an overdose of anaesthesia and your pet will not feel any discomfort.
HOW LONG DOES EUTHANASIA TAKE?
The final injection is very fast acting and takes effect in about 30-60 seconds. The euthanasia solution stops all brain function. The brain cannot send signals to the heart or lungs and these organs will slowly stop working. The important part is that the brain is shut off first (like going “under” for surgery). Note, unlike in humans, your pet’s eyes will not close.
Afterwards, our vet can step out to give you time alone with your pet. If aftercare is elected, we will arrange for the cremation process.
SHOULD OTHER PETS BE PRESENT DURING A EUTHANASIA?
It is our experience that other household pets absolutely need time to say goodbye, as long as they are not upsetting to their sick housemate. You may notice that they’re not themselves for a day or so afterwards, but when allowed to say goodbye animals tend to find closure. The reactions of your other pets will vary. Some may appear to ignore their friend who has passed. They have taken in the situation, even though they show no reaction. On the other hand, other pets might shake or cry. Pay attention to your remaining pets and be close to them.
WHY SHOULD I EUTHANISE MY PET? IS “DYING NATURALLY” A BETTER OPTION?
Most diseases will not ‘instantly’ take the life of your pet. Arthritis and kidney disease are common ailments that our pets suffer from and both of these diseases can lead to a long and painful end of life process. When appropriate, euthanasia can help your pet pass before they experience too much discomfort from a disease they cannot recover from. It’s important to remember that each disease process must be handled differently. Please speak with us to discuss your pet’s situation.
Contact Us - we are here for you and your pet
back to Pet Info
back to Home
QUALITY OF LIFE
HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME?
QUALITY OF LIFE SCALE
ANTICIPATORY GRIEF
CHILDREN & GRIEF
Some ideas of ways to remember and memorialise your pet
HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME?
QUALITY OF LIFE SCALE
ANTICIPATORY GRIEF
CHILDREN & GRIEF
Some ideas of ways to remember and memorialise your pet
