Pets and Euthanasia: Making the Humane Decision

The decision to euthanize a beloved pet may be one of the hardest a pet owner ever makes. Our dog and cat companions become part of our family, and watching them suffer can be heartbreaking. Many factors are involved in this difficult decision, and even when we know that our pet's health is failing, we may not know how to decide when the time is right for allowing our pet to depart this world in peace.

A elderly dog or cat who begins keeping to himself, not sleeping in the same room with his people that he always has or avoiding the company of the family, is probably in his final days. In the wild, it is natural for a dog to leave his pack when he is dying. It's not unusual for our cat companions to wander off to die alone, also.

The owner who has a strong bond with his pet may be able to merely look into his pet's eyes and know in his heart that it is time. The age of your dog or cat, and his quality of life, should be the first consideration when making the decision whether or not to resort to euthanasia. An elderly pet, who has lived many long and happy years, may be unable to eat or get around on his own. He may forget his house training, or simply be unable to get up to avoid soiling himself. He may be in severe pain from arthritis or other degenerative diseases. Put yourself in your dog's place; is this how you would want to live? Animal rights activists may cry foul, but animals are not people and shouldn't be forced to suffer because we can't bear the thought of losing them.

Many medical tests and life-saving treatments that were once available only to humans can now be performed on our pets. Pet health insurance has made these tests more accessible and affordable for pet owners, but still may be expensive. The pet owner must decide whether these life-prolonging measures are for the benefit of his pet, or himself. Is your pet aged, and can veterinary care at least ease his suffering so he may die a peaceful, natural death? Or are you selfishly extending your pet's life because you just can't bear to see him go? These are questions you must ask yourself, and only you will know the answer. When you're in doubt, ask your trusted veterinarian what he would do if this were his pet.

With children in the home, deciding whether or not to euthanize a pet is even more heart wrenching. Older children should have their opinions considered; very young children may not understand the concept of euthanasia at all and may fear you'll do the same to them! Consider the ages and emotional maturity of your children and what they understand of the concept of death. They may not need all the details of the procedure, but answer any questions they ask as truthfully as you are able. They may even ask to be present during the euthanasia. Give your children credit for knowing, emotionally, how much they can handle, and if the vet is agreeable the child may even hold and comfort his/her beloved pet as it passes quietly into the next world.

A pet who is not in severe pain, but whose poor tired body is just wearing out, may be kept at home in his final days. Encourage your children to care for their beloved companion, as much as they are able or willing, to teach them compassion and that death can be a peaceful blessing. Allow each child to grieve in his own way, and it won't hurt to shed a few tears yourself.

It's common for pet owners to feel guilty after euthanizing an animal companion. Others may make remarks that make you feel as if you made the wrong decision. The only right decision comes from your own heart and mind, and there is no point in second guessing a decision that cannot be undone. Console yourself with the thought that your well-loved dog or cat had a happy life with you and is at peace now.

Resources:
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/when-to-consider-euthanasia-in-dogs/page1.aspx
http://www.aplb.org/services/euthanasia.html