Pet Euthanasia: When it’s time to say goodbye

RegionalVet thoughts on pet euthanasiaThe loss of a beloved pet is never easy. It is a time that every pet owner dreads. We hope it never happens, but the truth is that most owners outlive their animals and will someday need to play a part in deciding when it is time for their beloved family friend to rest, a process called pet euthanasia. Saying goodbye to a pet is never easy, but it can be a little less painful if you know how to tell when it is the right time to let go.

Quality of Life for Pets

When we are caring for pets of any age, it is important to ensure that they are living an enjoyable and happy life. Good quality of life is essential, and your pet may need your help achieving this as he or she ages.

Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, our animals can get to a point where we are unable to provide them with an acceptable quality of life. When this happens, it is important that we remain strong and consider if pet euthanasia might be the best option.

Knowing When It’s Time

Pets are often stoic. They are not always good at letting us know when they are hurting or sad. This can make it very difficult to know for sure when it is time to say goodbye. Pets need to be able to perform some basic functions to be happy and healthy. It may be time to consider letting go when your pet can no longer:

  • Move around easily on their own and get up to go to the bathroom
  • Eat or drink enough to sustain themselves
  • Sleep comfortably
  • Show excitement for things that once were a source of happiness

A pet who is struggling in one or more of these categories is one who is likely to be experiencing decline in their quality of life. If you are having trouble knowing if it is time, we are always happy to help you assess the situation. Of course, you know your pet best, but it can be difficult to see beyond your own fear of losing them, to know what is best for your pet.

Find more information about how to know when it’s time to consider pet euthanasia at the American Humane Association.

Pet Euthanasia

Saying goodbye to a pet is always hard, and even more so when you must play an active part in the decision about when it is time. We all wish our pets would pass peacefully in their sleep at home due to old age, but this seldom happens. It is often necessary for pet owners to be strong and allow their pet to pass peacefully and end their suffering.

Pet euthanasia is not something to be scared about. It is generally a very peaceful procedure.

The caring staff at Regional Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center is much attuned to helping our clients through this process. Saying goodbye to your beloved pet is not the easiest part of pet ownership, but is an important part. It is an amazing privilege to be able to stop our pets suffering and allow them to leave the world with some dignity.