When euthanasia is appropriate, a humane and empathetic veterinarian will help your pet medically in any way you need, and we’re no different at LBAH. Veterinarians have different protocols for the pet’s human companion. Some have private areas for sitting with your pet; others simply invite you in to stay with him or her to say goodbye. Ours is to reserve one of our exam rooms for your exclusive and private use. You can use it as long as you need, in complete privacy, before you leave. Please let us know ahead of time what we can do to make the experience a little easier. By all means, bring a special toy or blanket your pet is familiar with to make the process less stressful.
We light a candle in our reception area notifying others that euthanasia is in progress in one of our exam rooms and to please be respectful by showing appropriate behavior.
It is important to complete all paperwork before your pet is euthanized. This lets the veterinarian concentrate on your pet’s needs and allows you to just walk out of the hospital without signing anything when the service has been performed.
One of the forms required in the state of California is verification that your pet has not bitten anyone in the last 10 days. This is to prevent the chance that fatal rabies has been transmitted to someone. If your pet has bitten someone, then he or she either has to be tested for rabies or quarantined for 10 days before euthanasia can proceed.
Some people prefer to be present with the doctor when their pet is euthanized. In our hospital, one of our nurses will bring your pet into our treatment area and place a catheter in its vein and also administer a light sedation to make the experience smoother for your friend. When your pet returns to the exam room, you can take as much time as you need before our doctor gives the final injection with you present. The catheter and sedation allow us to give the final injection smoothly. Your pet will peacefully fall asleep within a few seconds.
Euthanasia can be performed without your presence as well if you do not want to be there. This is generally done in our treatment area; we always let the client know immediately when it has been performed. You can always view your pet just after euthanasia has been completed if you need the closure.
Some veterinarians will come to the home for a private procedure so that your pet can be surrounded by the things that he or she is familiar with. Ask your vet if this is available. LBAH has a house-call service to euthanize your pet. One of our doctors will come with a technician to your residence and perform the service in private. Please let us know several days in advance so we can have a doctor available.
And if you’re going through this difficult time now, our heartfelt sympathy goes out to you.
