Euthanasia – ending the suffering
The literal translation of ‘euthanasia’ means ‘good death’ and this is what we always strive for. The process of euthanasia is never a vet’s favourite part of the job. But it is always, always carried out with the animal’s welfare at the forefront. We often think of it as the kindest thing we can do for them at that time when all other options have been considered. We always try to make it as comfortable for the pet and the owners as possible. Many owners may have questions about the procedure but aren’t sure how or when to ask them. Hopefully, this article will provide a little more information.
Owners often have a choice of either bringing their dog to the practice or having a home visit. Although, in these Covid times, call-outs may not be possible. Some people like to stay with their pet during the euthanasia and others prefer to leave the room. These are personal decisions and the owner’s choices will always be respected. We all want the procedure to go as smoothly and be as stress-free as possible for the dog. Therefore a number of techniques can be employed.
We’d always want to choose a quiet room, away from interruptions, or if in the owner’s house, normally where the dog likes to spend most of their time or wherever their bed is located. In nice weather, a peaceful euthanasia in the back garden can be a lovely end. Some people like to have their dog’s blanket close at hand, their favourite toy, or a jar full of treats, however best to ensure their pet is calm and relaxed.
For pets that are in pain, or are very excitable or nervous, an initial dose of sedation can help to calm them and keep them settled. This can either be given by an injection into their muscle or via a cannula in their leg. If given into the muscle, it can sometimes take around 15 minutes for it to take effect. During this time, I have sometimes left the owner to spend time with their dog alone. Or at other times we have sat and chatted about their pet in their younger days.
The final injection that is given is essentially an overdose of an anaesthetic and is completely painless. It is given into a vein, usually on the front leg. The only bit the animal may feel is the needle going in unless a cannula is already in place. In most cases, it is perfectly possible for the owner to hold or cuddle their dog as the vet gives the injection. Though a nurse may need to hold the leg to raise the vein. In old or fragile patients, sometimes the vein can ‘blow’ meaning the vein has ruptured and is leaking. This isn’t unduly painful for the dog but means the vet will have to use another vein to give the euthanasia agent.
Once the injection is given, the drug acts quickly, normally within seconds. The dog will look like they’re gently going to sleep. Over the next few minutes, the breathing will slow, then stop. Shortly followed by the heart stopping, which the vet will listen for with a stethoscope or feel for via a pulse by the groin. Sometimes the dog can gasp or twitch. Although they can be distressing to watch, these are completely involuntary movements and are just reflexes as the body shuts down. The vet will then do a final check to be certain the dog has gone; by again listening or feeling for a heartbeat and sometimes by touching the eye to ensure there is no blink reflex. It is worth noting that their eyes will stay open, as most people expect them to close.
If there are other dogs in the family, it can be a good idea to let them see the deceased pet. Some ignore them, some just give a cursory sniff, but in a lot of cases, it does seem to help them realise what has happened. The owner may also wish to spend a bit of time saying goodbye on their own, which is perfectly understandable.
Absolutely. Many owners like to take a small sample of fur or hair from their pet and some like to create a paw-print. You also have a choice as to whether their collar, tag, or harness stays with them for burial or cremation, or whether you keep them as mementos.
The final choice to be made is what to do with the body itself. There are usually four options– general cremation, individual cremation, burial in a pet cemetery, or burial at home.
A general cremation is where the dog is cremated along with other pets. And a portion of the collective ashes may be scattered in a memorial garden at the crematorium. An individual cremation is where they are cremated on their own. The ashes are then placed in a container or wooden casket for the owner to keep. For either option, your vet will be able to arrange the cremation for you. Or you can often take them to the crematorium yourself if you wish.
Burial in a pet cemetery is not particularly common in the UK. But they do exist and your vet may be able to help you find one close to you.
Paragraph 37 is NOT required to be registered in accordance with the Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 (as amended)
Relevant Objectives in relation to the disposal or recovery of waste are given in paragraph 4 of Schedule 3 to the Regulations.
The full wording of the paragraph 37 exemption can be found in Schedule 2 of the Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003.
A paragraph 37 exemption allows the burial of a dead domestic pet in the garden of the domestic property where the pet lived.
The burial of a dead domestic pet is not allowed if it may prove hazardous to anyone who may come into contact with it.
Copyright Stephen Mayles. All rights reserved. Pet Crematorium and Pet Cemetery In W Sussex and APPCC (Association of Private Pet Cemeteries & Crematoria).
The following are two articles I have found which give an idea of what you need to consider when you want to bury your cat or dog. Please also do your own additional research – especially if you feel burial may be complicated in your case.
How to Bury your Dog at Home – Is dog home burial legal and how to do it?
All animal lovers will agree that experiencing the death of a beloved pet – and having to say goodbye – will be an emotional and tear jerking time.
Nonetheless, owners should understand pet burial laws before deciding whether to bury an animal at home in the garden.