What You Can Expect During the Euthanasia
- The time needed to allow the procedure to proceed with dignity and peace
- The ability to ask any questions you may still have about the procedure
- A pain-free and anxiety-free experience for your pets
- The compassionate treatment of your pet at all times
- Skilled and experienced veterinary care
In addition to a pain-free procedure, the goal is to also eliminate any fear or discomfort your dog or cat may be feeling. Our companion animals live in the present moment. If they feel the loving presence of their family and have no anxiety about anyone new in the home, they will feel secure and cared for. Dr. Benner and Dr. Carney will take whatever time is necessary with your pet to allow him or her to feel comfortable. It is recommended that we utilize the room or area of your home in which your pet has normally spent most of his or her time - this is the space they have chosen and where they will feel most relaxed. During this getting-acquainted time, you and your family can ask any questions you may still have about the procedure.
Prior to the administration of any medication, you will be required to sign a permission form to proceed with the euthanasia procedure. This is a standard form that is required by the state. Click here to download the form. It gives Dr. Benner or Dr. Carney permission to proceed and it serves as verification that your pet has not bitten anyone within the past fifteen days.
The euthanasia procedure is a sequence of two injections. With your permission, Dr. Benner or Dr. Carney (and their assistant) will begin by clipping a small amount of hair from one of your dog's back legs. (With cats, an intramuscular injection is used at this point.) A combination of a sedative and a short-acting anesthetic is used and administered intravenously into the back leg. By using this technique, you and your family members can choose to stay in the front of your pet where he or she can see you and be comforted by you. The medication will allow your pet to relax and become sleepy in a short period of time.
Full relaxation will occur within a few minutes in dogs and within 5 to 10 minutes in cats. When your pet is fully relaxed, the euthanasia drug will be administered intravenously. Because of the initial sedation, your pet will not feel this injection at all. This drug has been designed specifically for this purpose and works in the body quickly - first rendering full unconsciousness and then stopping the heart. Your pet will not experience discomfort at any time during the procedure.
At Our Facility
There are some extenuating circumstances in which you may feel that your home is not the best choice of location. In these cases, we provide a private and comfortable living room suite for your animal companion and your family. If you have chosen to use the living room suite at the facility, you will be escorted there upon arrival. Dr. Benner or Dr Carney will meet you to answer any questions. The protocol will then be the same as if the euthanasia procedure was performed in your home.
Whether in your home or in this private setting, we are committed to euthanasia services professionally designed to honor the passage of your pet in the most peaceful and dignified way.