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                                        How Do I know Its Time

         Making the decision to euthanize a pet is often harder than dealing with the loss itself.  Many people say they can accept the death and the accompanying sadness, but have great difficulty with being the one who must decide when death will occur.  Janice, whoose 18 year-old dachshund was in steadily declining health, said, "Each night I pray that when I wake up in the morning I'll find that Buster died in his sleep.  That way I won't have to make the decision I've been dreading."

         Janice's admisssion reflects what many people feel as they watch their companion animals struggle against all odds.  As you face the painful decision about euhanizing your pet, let the following questions serve as your guide:

• Is there a reasonable chance for a cure? for comfort?

• How much additional time might treatment give?  What will the quality of that time be?

• Do I have the financial and emotional resources to handle long-term medical care if it is required?

• Will I have the necessary physical and emotional stamina to attend to my pet's need?  (Getting up at night.  Preparing special foods.  Giving shots.)

• Is our relationship changing or decreasing in quality as I anticipate this loss?

• How many of my pet's usual activities are still possible?

• Is my pet suffering, even though physical pain is not evident?

         When a pet is suffering - or has a severely diminished quality of life - and you decide to help it on its way, you are doing what you believe is best for your animal friend.  Let that thought remain uppermost in your mind as you face your decision, and again as look back at the action you take.

Excerpt from A Final Act of Caring by Mary and Herb Montgomery

What is euthanasia?

 Euthanasia is the humane ending of life.  It is not painful to the pet and the pet has no knowledge it is going to happen.  Pets pick up on our moods so sometimes anxiety can occur, especially when everyone is crying.   

Once the decision is reached, other decisions need to be made.  

Do you want to be present during the procedure?  If so, the staff will place an IV catheter in a vein so you may hold or cuddle your pet as the injection is given.   

• Should children be present?  Only you can decide if your children are mature enough to understand the process.

• If you have other pets, do you want them to be able to sniff the body afterward?  Some housemates are very close and sniffing the body may help give them closure.

• How would you prefer the remains to be  cared for?  Is home burial possible, or would cremation be preferred?  If cremation is chosen, do you want the ashes returned?

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