Euthanasia

“Euthanasia” is derived from Greek words meaning “good death.” It is painless to the animal and comes from a place of mercy and desire to relieve suffering or stop disease on behalf of the owner and veterinarian.

Our staff at Sinton Veterinary Clinic understands how difficult the decision to euthanize can be.  We have all lost animals we love, too.  Involving supportive family, friends and a trusted professional can help with the decision. 

How do I know it’s time?

Sometimes, suffering is obvious and the decision is easy.  Other times, it can be very difficult to know.  Common poor quality of life indicators are refusal or inability to eat, urinary or fecal incontinence, inability to get up, consistent or severe pain, loss of interest in things they once loved, depression or loss of dignity.  Your inability to provide care for the animal and your suffering while providing care are also factors we consider; your quality of life is important, too.  We will support you and guide you through the decision process.

What is the process?

If needed, an exam and necessary diagnostics will be performed to confirm that euthanasia is an appropriate decision.  We will thoroughly discuss options and answer all of your questions.  Once the decision is made, you will sign a consent form.  You can choose to be with your animal, but it’s ok to not be present, too.  We treat your animal like they are our own and will be with them if you aren’t able.  It’s ok to step away at any point during the procedure.  It’s also ok to cry; we know this is hard.  We can give hugs if you need one!

In most situations, we will take your pet to the treatment area to place an IV catheter while you wait in the exam room.  We then bring them back to the exam room and administer the euthanasia injection.  Typically, we give 1 injection, which is essentially an anesthetic overdose.  Animals fall asleep peacefully, then quickly pass away, usually in less than 1 minute. 

For painful or anxious animals, we may recommend additional sedatives or pain medications prior to the final injection.  You are welcome to request additional sedation as well.  

After the injection is administered, your animal will be monitored to confirm the heart has stopped beating.  It is normal for reflexes to occur for several minutes after the heart has stopped beating; reflexes may be surprising to you, but your animal is not aware of them and does not feel them. It is common for animals to urinate and defecate as the body relaxes. 

We prepare your invoice and have you pay prior to performing the euthanasia.  This allows you to leave quickly and privately as you choose, without having to stand in a busy lobby when you may be grieving.

If you choose to take your animal home, it needs to be buried 6’ deep, to prevent other animals from exhuming the body.  We commonly put the animal in a plastic bag, as this contains any urine or feces; you may decline this if you wish.  We will bring your animal to your vehicle through the side of the clinic to respect you and your animal’s privacy. 

Cremation is an option for most pets and small livestock.  Bill’s Pet Cremation will come to our clinic to pick up your pet and deliver the cremains back to the clinic within a few days for you to pick up if you wish.  Our staff can help you with the details.  

There are unique situations that may require adjustments to this plan, other disposal options, and situations where we may recommend you not be present.  Our goals are to help your animal pass peacefully while avoiding situations that may cause you additional stress during this already difficult time.

Large Animals 

We are able to euthanize large animals as well; however, we are not able to provide disposal or transport at this time.  You are responsible for making those arrangements.  Call us to discuss your individual situation.

We’re Here For You

Deciding to euthanize can be tough, but we can support you through it. We can discuss options to give your pet the best life they can have and help you make the hard decisions when you’re faced with them. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us.