WHEN LOVE MEANS LETTING GO: MAKING THE TOUGH DECISION TO EUTHANIZE A BELOVED PET

As pet owners, we hope to outlive our furry companions, but the day may come when we face the heart-wrenching decision to let them go. The story of Rosy, a 14-year-old Rottweiler, illustrates this painful journey.

ROSY’S STORY

Rosy was brought to our clinic with a mammary tumour the size of a soccer ball. It was heartbreaking to see her in such a state. As we took blood samples and biopsies, Rosy lay there, seemingly oblivious to any pain. When the lab results came back, they indicated that the tumour was not invasive or cancerous, making Rosy a candidate for surgery. A mastectomy would remove the tumour and potentially save her life.

But was surgery the right choice for Rosy?

At 14 years old, Rosy was equivalent to an 88-year-old human, older than Sheldon Cooper’s beloved Memaw. Despite still eating, drinking, and excreting normally, Rosy had lost her zest for life. Her advanced age and the demands of surgery—intensive post-operative care, dietary changes, and significant rehabilitation—would be a heavy burden for both Rosy and her owners.

We discussed the options with Rosy’s parents: surgery or euthanasia. After carefully considering the implications of each choice, they decided to put Rosy down, sparing her the pain and stress of surgery and recovery.

For pet parents, making the difficult decision to euthanize a beloved pet may seem harsh, but it is often the kindest act of love for your furry family members.

UNDERSTANDING EUTHANASIA

Euthanasia, derived from the Greek words “eu” (meaning “good”) and “thanatos” (meaning “death”), is commonly referred to as a humane death. In veterinary medicine, we often use phrases like “putting the animal down” or “putting them to sleep” to describe this process in a way that emphasizes its peaceful and painless nature, without the grim connotations.

To put an animal to sleep, a veterinarian first administers a sedative to calm and relax the animal. Then, an overdose of barbiturates is injected into their bloodstream or directly into the heart, rendering the animal unconscious and stopping their heartbeat. The veterinarian then checks to confirm there is no heartbeat or pulse. This entire process is quick and painless for the animal, though emotionally agonizing for the pet parent.

In this article, we will discuss five signs to look out for when deciding if euthanasia is in your pet’s best interest.

NO. 1: TERMINAL OR ZOONOTIC DISEASES

Some animals, like Rosy, suffer from diseases that significantly reduce their quality of life, cause them to waste away, and sometimes even pose risks to humans. Additionally, certain pet diseases have no cure and require lifelong, costly medical management that some pet owners may not be able to afford. In these situations, consulting with a veterinarian for an unbiased assessment can provide clarity on the best course of action for both the pet and the owner.

NO 2. AGGRESSION & BEHAVIOURAL DISORDERS

A pet is expected to be obedient and non-threatening. However, when a pet becomes aggressive without provocation, attacking strangers or even their owner, it can be a serious safety concern and potential legal issue.

Owners should first determine the cause of their pet's aggression. Medical conditions such as brain tumours, hormonal imbalances, or infectious diseases like rabies can cause sudden changes in behaviour. Often, though, aggression in pets results from inadequate socialization during their formative years, a common issue in stray or rescued animals.

Before deciding on euthanasia for a pet with unmanageable aggression, it’s crucial to get a thorough medical assessment from a veterinarian. Additionally, consulting with an animal behaviour expert or trainer is recommended. If professionals conclude that euthanasia is the most humane option, you can be assured that you have considered all possible alternatives.

NO. 3 AGE AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Just as in humans, ageing in animals brings a range of challenges affecting bones, joints, eyes, and vital organs such as the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and liver. As a result, senior pets often move more slowly and may require special diets to manage their health.

While old age alone does not justify euthanasia, the quality of life is a crucial factor. If a senior pet is in constant pain, has more bad days than good, or shows a significant decline in their overall well-being, it may be an indication that euthanasia could be the most compassionate choice.

NO. 4 TRAUMA OR POISONING

Accidents can rapidly transform a vibrant pet into one suffering from severe trauma or poisoning within minutes or days. It’s heartbreaking for any pet owner to face the reality of a beloved animal who was full of life one moment and critically injured or poisoned the next, whether from being hit by a car, falling from a height, or ingesting something harmful.

In such distressing situations, where severe trauma or poisoning has led to irreversible suffering, euthanasia may be the kindest option. It allows you to provide a compassionate end to your pet’s suffering, sparing them from prolonged pain and distress.

NO. 5 QUALITY OF LIFE

Assessing a pet's quality of life can be incredibly challenging for pet owners due to the strong emotional bond we share with them. We may struggle to objectively evaluate how well our pets are truly doing.

For example, I recall a case involving a cat with a fractured pelvis and neurological damage that prevented it from urinating or defecating on its own. Despite the recommendations from myself and two other veterinarians to consider euthanasia, the owner opted to keep the cat alive. She used prem-sized diapers and managed routine surgical evacuations and weekly bladder taps to maintain the cat’s life keeping it in pain.

When a pet can no longer move freely, engage in activities they once enjoyed, or even manage basic bodily functions, and is in constant pain, it’s important to heed the advice of veterinarians. They can provide a compassionate assessment and recommend euthanasia if it is the most humane option for alleviating your pet’s suffering.

In conclusion…

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, but waiting for a natural death can often result in prolonged suffering. For pets who are sick, injured, or experiencing severe distress—especially those who cannot be safely rehomed or whose medical care might be unaffordable—euthanasia can be a merciful alternative to prevent additional pain and anxiety.

By recognizing that it may be time to let go and seeking guidance from veterinarians, you can make this difficult decision with compassion and clarity, ensuring your pet’s final moments are as peaceful and respectful as possible.

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