Some people feel it is important for their pet that they be present, while others feel that their anxiety will stress their pet unnecessarily. You may decide to stay and then realize you are unable to. Whatever your initial decision, you have the option to stay or leave at any time. Please know that we want you to be able to say goodbye in your own time during this appointment and will not rush you through it.
For the procedure, an intravenous catheter is placed before an injection of a very strong anesthetic solution is given. The only discomfort your pet will feel is the prick of the catheter needle – no different than taking a blood sample. Once your veterinarian commences with the intravenous injection, the process is very swift. Within seconds of administration, the overdose of anesthetic stops the function of your pet’s brain and heart as they slip into a final ‘sleep’. Your veterinarian will check to see that your pet’s heart has stopped and will tell you they have passed away. Several things that can happen during euthanasia can be quite disconcerting if you don’t expect them. Your pet’s bladder and bowels may release following death. Some dogs have agonal breaths or muscle twitches; these are only muscle reflexes and do not reflect pain. Also, your pet’s eyes will not close. Once your pet has passed, you are welcome to spend as much time with them as you need. Our clinic is now equipped with a Comfort Room where the procedure will take place. This allows you the time you may need to say goodbye privately without the pressure of the clinic's schedule.
Prior to euthanasia, you should discuss with your veterinarian and family which option for body care is best for you. You might decide on home burial (review of local by-laws is needed to know if this is an option) or you may ask your veterinarian to have your pet cremated. You can request a communal cremation, where your pet will be cremated with other pets, or a private cremation, where your pet’s ashes will be returned to you. Because the private cremation is carried out for a single pet only, it can be more costly. We also offer a memorial paw print impression that can be performed at this final visit. If you would like more details on private cremation options/urns/pawprint, please contact the clinic and speak to one of our staff members.