Euthanasia is such a difficult and sad decision to have to make for your canine companion. Unfortunately, it’s one that we all must face at some point in our dog guardian journey. I have much experience on this topic, not only as an ER veterinarian with a home euthanasia business for over 20 years, but also as a dog mom who has lost many of my own beloved friends.
If home euthanasia is an option for you, then it is by far the best choice for you and your dog. Check out my blog post here to see why home euthanasia is ideal.
However, depending on the situation, home euthanasia is not always a viable option. So let’s discuss the ways that you can make the euthanasia experience gentle and comforting for your dog in a hospital setting with these 5 Essential Tips.
1. Stay with Your Dog
It is important that your dog does not feel the fear of their owner leaving them alone just prior to euthanasia. Stay with your dog for the procedure if you can. It breaks our hearts when we see dogs looking for their owners as we are giving the final injection.
Also, try to avoid having the vet staff take your dog away from you to place the IV catheter. Ask them if it is possible for them to place the catheter in the room with you present. I personally no longer place IV catheters for the euthanasia procedure. I use a butterfly catheter in a hind limb while the guardians are comforting their dog at the front. Having done this for over 20 years I am very comfortable with this procedure however, other veterinarians may be more comfortable placing the IV catheter.
2. Sedation
Ask your vet for an oral sedative prior to arrival to relax your dog. If your dog is too sick for oral medications then you may want to request a sedative intramuscular injection upon arrival instead. I give a sedative intramuscularly in the exam room while the guardian holds their dog. I leave them alone as the sedative takes effect and then return to give the final injections.
If your dog is aggressive or severely fearful then you definitely should to request an anesthetic intramuscular injection upon arrival.
Let the vet know you would like the sedative to be administered in the exam room with you present.
Be sure that your vet’s euthanasia protocol also includes an IV injection of propofol to anesthetize your dog prior to the IV euthanasia injection.
3. Bring Your Dog’s Bed or Blanket From Home
The hospital setting is often cold and sterile. Bring comfy blankets, a pillow and maybe the dog bed to make it as cozy as possible for your dog. Do not allow your dog to be placed on a cold exam table.
Ask if your dog can be euthanized on the floor on the blankets, especially if your dog is large. If you have a small dog you may want to hold him/her in your lap for the procedure. Try to avoid the tables as they can cause fear and discomfort.
You make want to bring something for yourself to sit on while on the floor with your dog so you can be comfortable if you decide to spend an extended time saying good-bye. Adding a small amount of a calming essential oil such as Lavendar can help relax both you and your dog.
4. Bring a Favorite Treat or Food
If your dog is still able to eat then you may want to bring a final meal or yummy treats to distract your dog when he/she is receiving the first sedative injection.
A favorite toy may also bring comfort for your friend. A lick mat with peanut butter or baby food is a trick I used to distract my home euthanasia patients while I administer the first injection.
5. Try to Book the Appointment During Quiet Business Hours and Ask Questions Ahead of Time
If possible try to avoid the busy times of the clinic. When booking the appointment ask the receptionist which time would be best to provide quiet and calm.
Ask to speak to the doctor about the procedure at the time of booking. Find out how this particular vet handles euthanasia and be sure that you are comfortable with the process.
You may want to ask if you would be able to stay with your dog throughout every step. If they say no, then I would look elsewhere.
Humane euthanasia is a sensitive procedure for both the dog guardians and the veterinarians. Discuss your requests with the veterinarian but also understand that they likely have a technique they are most comfortable with and you may have to come to a compromise. But you also do not have to compromise if you do not want to. There is always the option of seeking another veterinarian that is more aligned with your needs.
Remember, You Are Your Dog’s Health Care Advocate
If you are uncomfortable with any part of the procedure then let the hospital staff know immediately. Numerous guardians have shared with me their previous traumatic experiences with euthanasia, expressing remorse for not having advocated more for their canine companions. This is your beloved dog and you are in control of how this is going to go.
This is an emotionally challenging period for both you and your dog. Make every effort to ensure it’s as comforting and compassionate as you can… for both of you.
Sending my heartfelt wishes for comfort and peace to everyone going through the difficult journey of euthanasia.
With Love,
Dr.Loudon
If you would like support through this process join our facebook group “Grieving Dog Guardians“.
If you are in need of a home euthanasia on Long Island, NY please feel free to contact me. I would be honored to help you and your family through this difficult process.