When and how to say goodbye

Here at Chalkland Vets, we understand that one of the hardest and biggest decisions that you have to make as an owner is having to say goodbye to your beloved friend. Whether that is a cat, guinea pig, dog, rabbit or hamster – any pet is part of the family.

We want to support you as much as possible, including pre-euthanasia, during the euthanasia process, and after it takes place, as we believe that our care extends beyond a consultation.

Let’s have a look at signs that your pet may be heading towards the end of their life, along with the euthanasia process and how you can say goodbye to your pet.

How will I know when my pet needs to be put to sleep?

One of the most asked questions that we get asked is, ‘How do I know when it is time?’

Unfortunately, that is not a question that we can answer easily, as you know your pet the best. We know that it can make the decision harder if your pet isn’t showing any obvious signs of distress.

When you picture the end of your pet’s life, many owners pay close attention to how they use their legs. If your pet is unable to stand, many people see this as a tell-tale sign that the time has come. However, it is likely that signs may have been there well before they were unable to stand. A common saying that we like to use is, “it’s better a day too soon, than a day too late.”

It can be really difficult to make the decision to put your pet to sleep – after all, it’s not a frequent decision that we have to make as owners. But, in many instances, it is better for your pet not to struggle towards the end of their life and get to a situation where they are unable to function normally.

Of course, it is not that black and white – there is a very fine line between ‘too soon’ and ‘too late’. At the end of the day, it is what you decide as an owner along with your family.

Take note of your pet’s actions

One way that may help you to make a decision is to closely monitor your pet on a daily basis. Making a list of their favourite things to do every day can help you to assess their quality of life.

For example, if your dog’s favourite thing to do is go for a walk and then suddenly they don’t seem to want to go any more, could this be a sign that their quality of life is deteriorating? The same can be said for:

  • Enjoying their favourite treats
  • Playing with toys
  • Showing signs of love and affection

We would suggest sitting with your family and making a list of your pet’s favourite things to do. Make the list as long as possible – it will really help!

  • Do they enjoy relaxing?
  • Is your cat still an avid hunter?
  • Is your hamster using their wheel as much?

When you’re coming to a decision on your pet’s quality of life, you can refer to this ‘list of love’ and see how they compare. When you start to cross items off the list, it may be time to start reevaluating their life if over half the list is crossed out. This is a good indication as to whether they are still enjoying and living the valued life that they deserve.

Can I wait until my pet passes naturally?

Unfortunately, many owners often believe that their pet will naturally die of old age. After all, that’s what we’re used to with humans, unless they are taken from us too early by accident or disease. So, it’s only natural that we think the same with our animals.

However, it is unlikely that your pet will pass away naturally without going through some degree of suffering. It would be so useful if our pets could talk like human patients, as we would be able to treat them more effectively towards the end of their life.

The reality is that our pets hide pain and suffering really well. That’s why following the list method is a useful way to assess their quality of life.

Unfortunately, by the time your pet passes away naturally, it is often due to a seizure or gradual slow cardiac failure leading to internal drowning, instead of the peaceful passing that we would expect. This can be distressing for both the pet and the family.

This makes the decision to euthanise even more important, as we know that you want the best for your pet, right until the very end.

What are some hidden signs of pain or distress?

We vets often treat our jobs a bit like detective work, and you as owners sometimes have to do the same. As we know, our pets hide pain very well, especially for prey animals like rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters. They hide pain and distress even better than cats and dogs, as they don’t want to appear vulnerable to predators.

Some common signs of pain or distress in animals include:

  • Restlessness
  • Hiding more than usual
  • Low appetite for food
  • Uninterested in activities
  • Teeth grinding
  • Weight loss
  • Difficulty walking
  • Fast or laboured breathing
  • Vocalisation
  • High heart rate
  • Change in behaviour, such as aggression

Whilst these symptoms could refer to many different issues, they are usually important signs in older or sick pets that veterinary intervention is required.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your local branch as soon as possible[JW1] [DH2] .

How can I prepare for euthanasia?

The word ‘euthanasia’ can sound very intimidating and daunting. That’s why the phrase ‘put to sleep’ is often used instead. However, it’s important to mention that putting an animal to sleep in a euthanasia sense is permanent, and is not the same as putting them to sleep under an anaesthetic.

Here at Chalkland Vets, we want your euthanasia experience to be as stress free as possible. Speak with one of our receptionists as to when the quietest time would be to book a euthanasia appointment. We are more than happy to try and book this with your regular veterinary surgeon where possible.

If your pet has been hospitalised with us, you are welcome to come and spend some time with your pet before they are put to sleep.

When attending a euthanasia appointment, it can be really comforting for you to have a familiar face to support you. We suggest bringing a friend or family members with you so that you can support each other.

We want your pet to feel comfortable during a euthanasia appointment. We have plenty of blankets and bedding available, but if you would prefer to bring your own bedding and toys, you are more than welcome to.

What happens during a euthanasia appointment?

We know that understanding what happens on the day of euthanasia can remove the fear of the unknown. So, let’s have a look at what happens during a euthanasia appointment.

We will often book out adequate time in the consulting diary for you to have plenty of time to discuss your decision with one of our veterinary surgeons. They will be able to answer any questions that you may have.

Our veterinary surgeon will also discuss a consent form with you, and this will need to be signed by the owner, so that you understand that you are consenting to the euthanasia of your pet. Although this may seem scary, it is a legal part of the process. In some instances, it may not be possible for us to gain consent from an owner. In these cases, two veterinary surgeons can consent to the euthanasia of an animal based on welfare grounds.

In some instances, we may take your pet away for a short while so that we can place an intravenous catheter. This is so that we can have direct access to a vein for the final injection.

If your pet becomes easily distressed, we may be able to offer sedation to make them sleepy for the euthanasia process.

Animals are euthanised with a drug that is similar to an overdose of anaesthetic. This is a completely painless procedure and happens very quickly.

In rare cases, it may not be possible for you to be with your pet for the final injection. In small mammals such as rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits it may be difficult for us to find a vein to place an intravenous catheter, meaning that we need to use an inhaled anaesthetic agent and then inject into an organ once they are asleep – this can be distressing to watch, and there are other issues with using inhalation agents if you are present.

It is completely up to you as an owner whether you would like to stay with your pet for their euthanasia. There is no judgement from the team if you decide you would not like to be present for the final injection. Your pet will receive plenty of love from our veterinary team at the end of their life, and they will not be aware of what’s happening.

What happens to my pet after euthanasia?

After your pet has been put to sleep, you can spend some time with them if you wish. However, it is important to note that very often, our pets do not close their eyes once they have passed away, which some owners can sometimes find distressing.

Many pets can also experience muscle twitches, along with the passing of urine and faeces. Sometimes, they may also pass some fluid from their nose. This is completely normal and is the body relaxing.

We are able to help you to decide what you would like to do with your pet after euthanasia. Many owners opt for a home burial, whereas other owners may request a cremation, which we can organise for you.

There are a few options available with a cremation service:

  • Routine cremation: This is where your pet will be cremated with other animals, and their ashes are scattered at the crematorium. It is important to understand that you do not receive any ashes back with this service.
  • Individual cremation: This is where your pet is cremated on their own, so the ashes that you receive are your own pet’s. The ashes can be returned to you for scattering, or you can choose a more permanent home in the form of a casket.

If you would prefer, you can take your own pet to the crematorium after euthanasia, or we can arrange a transfer.

Is there support for owners experiencing grief?

There is plenty of support out there for owners experiencing feelings of grief. It’s important to lean on family and friends as much as possible during this time.

Feel free to speak with one of our team members who will be happy to share any resources with you that may help during this difficult time.

The following resources can also be really helpful during the grieving process:

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but being prepared and understanding the process can make it a little more manageable. Remember, assessing their quality of life and seeking support for yourself are important steps. Our team is always here to guide you and provide comfort when needed.

At our Calne clinic we have a special room for euthanasia with dimmable lights and a comfy sofa where you can sit and cuddle your pet . You can take as much time as you need, and we will always have tea and tissues at the ready. We recommend you have someone to support you during the appointment, if possible, and someone to drive you home afterwards.

We can offer euthanasia appointments in your home, should you prefer this option, please ask our supportive team to schedule this.

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