Saying Goodbye

Due to the gradual nature of most pet health problems, it can be challenging to know when the correct time for euthanasia has arrived. This time will also be different for different people.

It can be helpful to try and determine what "quality of life" means for your pet by making a list of things he or she most enjoyed. Such as interactions with other pets and people, playing with a favourite toy, a walk on the beach, etc. Assessing the number of good days compared to bad over time can also be helpful. This can be as simple as putting a marble in a bowl on a good day and removing one on a sad day or putting coloured stickers on a calendar. Drawing a "line in the sand" such as, if my pet drops below a certain weight or has not eaten for a certain number of days can help. We would encourage you to download the following "Quality of life scale and diary" to monitor your pet and help your decision-making.

A close relationship and communication with your Vet are important at this time to ensure your pet remains as well treated and comfortable as possible. Your personal quality of life also needs consideration. What effect will appropriate treatment have on your finances and family? Do you have time to tend to your pet's needs? What other obligations and stresses do you have in your life at this time?

The death of a pet can be a massive emotional loss in our lives. It is important to recognise this and give yourself permission to grieve. Don't be hard on yourself, give it time. Surround yourself with those that understand the bond you had with your pet so that you can talk without judgment. 

Try to ignore comments from those who can not understand the relationship you had with your pet.
Try to let go of guilt and "what ifs". Remember you did what you thought was right at the time with the intent of love. It may be best to sort out your feelings before getting a new pet so you can welcome it with open arms.

Pet loss can cause significant grief for some children and maybe their first experience of death. It is considered best to be honest and acknowledge your child's grief. It is tempting to lie about a pet's death to try and minimize grief but this can lead to issues of unresolved grief or even the child blaming themselves for the loss of the pet.

Discuss the reasons for the pets' euthanasia and encourage questions. Having a ceremony to celebrate the pet's life is often helpful. The clinic can provide a clipping of your pet's hair for this. It may be best to wait a while before getting a new pet so the memories can be treasured and so the pet is not viewed as easily replaced.

When the decision for euthanasia has been made we very much wish to make this as respectful and comfortable for you and your pet as possible.

Making an appointment

Our Reception team will try to select a time that will allow as much privacy and time with your pet as possible. Euthanasia can also be carried out in the family's home when appropriate.
The entire family can be present for the euthanasia or if you prefer you can leave before the actual injection. A consent form clarifying your wishes will need to be completed.

The injection

Euthanasia in pets is a painless process. An injection of an anaesthetic agent is given to overdosage. Consciousness is lost quickly as the injection is given. This is rapidly followed by both your pet's breathing and heartbeat stopping. The Vet will confirm when this has occurred.
The injection is administered via a vein in the foreleg or hind leg. This does require the minor prick of a fine needle and some mild restraint to hold the vein steady. We wish this to be stress-free so if your pet shows any sign of agitation we will recommend sedation first. You will need to allow 10-20 minutes for your pet to drift to sleep before proceeding.
Your pet will have a catheter gently pre-placed in a vein by staff behind the scenes so when the family is ready there is no need to find a vein and there is minimal need for restraint.

Last moments

After the overdosage has been administered and life ends there are some unavoidable natural events to be aware of and prepared for.

A small proportion of dogs will have one to several reflex gasps. This can appear frightening if you are not expecting this but be assured your dog is not aware of this or suffering and that this is a normal body function. This is now quite rare as we use a standard anaesthetic before the euthanasia medication.

As oxygen leaves the body's muscles they may react briefly by twitching slightly. As muscles relax the bladder and occasionally bowel will empty. The eyes remain open afterlife ends and the pupils dilate.

Before your visit, it is best to consider what would suit your family most for the care of your pet after euthanasia. Taking your pet home for burial is an option but becoming less common as sections become smaller and with less time spent in a single home. Your pet can alternatively be left in our care for a cremation service provided by "Pets at Rest". Your pet can be cremated communally with no ashes returned or individually with the return of your pet's ashes. Ashes can be returned in a simple cardboard box or a rimu box with engraving. Examples are available at the clinic and our staff will be happy to discuss these options and others. Remember to celebrate the wonderful memories and much-loved life of your special friend