How can pet parents tell when it's time to consider euthanasia for a dog?
I use a scheme for pet parents about thinking about five things that their dog loved to do when they were younger. Whether that's getting super excited when they grab the leash to go for a walk, certain foods that they love to eat, or certain activities they love to do. When they're not doing at least half of those anymore, I think it's time to start considering their quality of life and whether we should be making this difficult decision.
How do you help clients choose between dog euthanasia and continued care?
I try to have a realistic conversation with my clients about whether their animal is suffering or not and for them to try and put the presumed feelings of their dog first before what they think might be best for themselves.
What is the process of euthanasia for dogs, and how is it typically performed?
Euthanasia in dogs in this practice is a two-step process. We first give them an injection of a combination of sedatives into one of their muscles. We give that about 5 to 10 minutes to work. They get much more relaxed and lay down. They're still with us, but they're in a dazed phase where they're not super aware of what's going on, which is then followed by the final injection, which is given into a vein and is an overdose of an anesthetic medication that stops their heart, and we help them pass away that way.
What are the options for dog euthanasia at home versus in a clinic?
There are some companies that will come to your house or individual veterinarians in this area that have home euthanasia practices. Sometimes as a practice, we're able to accommodate people's requests. It depends on how many doctors we have and what's going on in the hospital itself. We do have options that people can reach out to us if we're not able to provide that for other in-home euthanasia options. In the clinic, if we are open and it's an emergent situation and your dog needs to be euthanized, we try very hard to accommodate you and get you in as soon as possible.
What is involved in in-home dog euthanasia, and how can pet owners prepare?
The veterinarian that comes to your house to do the in-home euthanasia brings most things needed for that. Having your pet in an area that is well-lit and where the vet can see more easily to find a vein for the euthanasia is very helpful. Having them on a blanket or a bed that they are comfortable on is also beneficial. Sometimes home euthanasia even happens outside. Again, make sure that they're in a well-lit area.
What should pet parents expect emotionally and medically during a dog euthanasia appointment?
Emotionally, it's going to be a very challenging time. You're saying goodbye to one of your best friends, and it's okay to be emotional and very upset during that time. Medically, sometimes dogs do continue to have reflex breaths even after they are technically passed away. Sometimes dogs can urinate or defecate on themselves after they've passed away as well.
Can my family come to say goodbye when my dog gets put to sleep? And how about any other pets?
Your family is welcome to come and say goodbye to a dog during euthanasia. We do have some limits on the number of people at the clinic just because the rooms are only so big. It is also okay to bring another pet with you as long as that pet's temperament is fine in the clinic setting and there's room in the room for them. It is best to double-check with each veterinarian prior to doing that.
How do veterinarians ensure that dog euthanasia is painless and compassionate?
We try very hard with having them heavily sedated before the actual final injection. There is going to be the slight discomfort of a needle poke and the pressure of the medicine going into the muscle for the sedation. But once that's happened, they usually don't even notice the final needle prick for the euthanasia solution itself, and they go unconscious before they pass away. They really have no idea what's happening, and it's very peaceful for them.
Can you discuss euthanasia for dogs with specific conditions such as an enlarged heart or chronic illness?
Certain cardiac or respiratory diseases can make euthanasia a little bit more challenging. It can be harder to find a vein to give the euthanasia solution in any sort of chronic illness. But with heart and respiratory issues especially, the euthanasia solution does not usually circulate quite as quickly through the body. There is usually a longer period where they may be unconscious but still with us, which to an owner might look uncomfortable because they're taking deeper breaths. But we do believe that they're unconscious and it is not uncomfortable for them.
How do you support grieving pet parents after euthanasia has been performed?
We're here to support you if there's anything we can do to help answer questions about the euthanasia. Also, as a Cornell graduate, Cornell has a pet loss hotline that we can provide information for if you need even more support.
What are the aftercare options for my dog after they are put to sleep? And can I have my dog's ashes back after cremation or can my dog be buried?
We have three main options here at Rondout Valley Veterinary Associates. Cremation is one option, which is broken down into private cremation where you would get your ashes back, or a group cremation where you would not get your animalโs ashes back. The service we use spreads the group cremation ashes on their pet cemetery. There is also a third option to take your pet home for burial. We offer paw print impressions of your pet at the time of euthanasia if that's something you're interested in.
Can I make an appointment to talk about my dog's quality of life before I make a final decision to euthanize my dog?
You can always call up and make a quality of life appointment. It would be scheduled at a certain time, and you would bring your dog to the appointment with you so that the veterinarian could evaluate them and discuss what they see is going on, and if they think there's anything that can be done to better improve your dog's life or if it is time for euthanasia.
We are honored to care for your pet at every stage of their life, including this one. Our team is here to offer support, guidance, and a space where you can feel as prepared and at ease as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (845) 626-5555.