WHAT TO EXPECT
Gold standard euthanasia
On arrival I will meet and greet those who wish to be present for the euthanasia. A consent form is signed by the legal owner (or a suitable authorised representative) of the pet to be euthanased. A sedative is injected under the skin using a small needle, similar to a booster vaccination injection. The sedative induces a deep peaceful sleep in about 20 minutes. Once the pet is peacefully sleeping, an intravenous catheter may be placed (this requires some fur to be shaved). When you are ready for the final farewell, an overdose of anaesthetic is injected into the vein (or sometimes into an organ), and within a minute or so the pet peacefully and painlessly passes away. The whole visit may take about an hour on average.
Where is the best place for my pet to be euthanased?
Picking an area in the home where the pet feels most comfortable and at ease helps make the procedure go smoothly. Bear in mind that it needs to be an area where other pets can safely be excluded and any surface the pet is lying on could become soiled with urine, faeces or other bodily fluids that can leak out after the pet has passed away. It is uncommon for this to occur, but just in case it does, surfaces can be protected from soiling by covering them with a water proof barrier, e.g., puppy training pads/incontinence sheets or a heavy-duty plastic sheet, covered by a pet blanket or towel that can be discarded.
Can I hold my pet during the procedure?
Yes! It is very special for pets to fall asleep peacefully in the arms of a person they love and feel safe with and it can help them to feel less stressed. Pets can be held and cuddled right up until their last breath. As previously mentioned I do recommend using a waterproof barrier between yourself and the pet just in case there is any leakage of urine, faeces or other bodily fluids after the pet has passed away.
Can I feed my pet treats during the procedure?
Absolutely! This is actively encouraged for pets that still have an appetite. You may feed your pet any treats you want (including things like chocolate!) until they are too sleepy to eat any more. Treats are useful for distracting pets from the sedative injection and they help pets to feel that all is well and that they are loved and cared for.