Euthanasia

Sadly there comes a time in every pet’s life where they no longer have a good quality of life, and we need to intervene and help them across the rainbow bridge. We always hope this is when your dog is at a ripe old age and has seen and done everything on their bucket list, but sadly just like in human medicine this is not always the case.

Here at the College Manor Veterinary Hospital, we do everything in our power to offer your pet the most peaceful, dignified passing possible. After we place a catheter into their vein we will give your pet some sedation to help them relax. Once all family members have had a chance to say their final goodbyes the veterinarian will administer an overdose of an anesthetic that puts them into a deep sleep that they just never wake up from.

While euthanasia is one of the most difficult decisions you will EVER have to make for your furry friend, it is also the most humane thing we can do for our pets when they are suffering and no longer have a good quality of life.

What is pet euthanasia and how do I know when it’s the right time?

Here at College Manor Veterinary Hospital, we always say your pet will let you know when it’s the right time. You will tend to start to notice small things like a decrease or no appetite, depression, not interacting with the family any longer, problems breathing, issues with mobility or a change in their bathroom habits and not making it outside any longer etc. As your animal ages and you start to notice these changes, please always discuss this with your veterinarian. We are here to help you welcome your new additions into the family right through to the sad time when you need to say your goodbyes.

What drug is used?

We use a special anesthetic called Dorminal to perform this procedure, and when injected into the catheter placed in your pet’s vein, your pet will typically just go into a deep sleep and never wake up again. It is generally a very peaceful ending to what we hope has been a long and fulfilling life.

Does the clinic also provide bereavement counselling?

The veterinarians at the College Manor Veterinary Hospital are happy to provide counselling regarding your pet’s quality of life and help with end of life decisions, but we typically refer bereavement counselling to the professionals who specialize in this field. Should you be suffering from depression or require grief counselling after the loss of your animal companion, please feel free to call the clinic, and we can put you in touch with someone who can help.