Questions to Ask

When faced with deciding what to do with an ailing pet, ask yourself these questions:

• 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 care if it is required?
• Will I have the necessary physical and emotional stamina to attend to my pet's needs? (Getting up at night. Preparing special foods. Give 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?

Choices to Make

Once you realize the time for your pet's euthanasia is near, it is helpful to do as much planning and preparing ahead of time as possible. The purpose of this list is to make you aware of the many choices you have about your pet's death. Please discuss any decisions you are uncertain about with your veterinarian.

When preparing for your pet's euthanasia, it is helpful to:

• Ask your veterinarian to describe the methods and details of the euthanasia procedure
• Decide whether or not to be present during your pet's euthanasia
• Decide who else (if anyone) you would like to have present during the euthanasia (If you wish to be alone during the procedure, you may still want to ask a friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment so you will have support afterwards)
• Plan the logistical details of your pet's euthanasia when should it take place? Where should it take place? How will you care for your pet's body? What will you transport/bury your pet's body in if you take it with you?
• Consider an autopsy. Autopsies can answer some of the questions you may have regarding your pet's illness or injury
• Think about how you will say goodbye and/or memorialize your pet