Making the decision to say goodbye to your beloved pet is one of the most difficult decisions you will make as an owner. Euthanasia or having a pet ‘put to sleep’ is often the kindest way to give your pet a dignified passing, without pain and suffering.
When is the right time to euthanise my pet?
It can be difficult to decide when the time is right. Many of us hope that our pets live into their old age with few health concerns, but sadly this is not always the case. It can be very beneficial to talk to family and friends, particularly reflecting on your pet’s life and considering if your pet is still able to enjoy their favourite activities. Useful aspects relating to quality of life to consider can be found here. There are many things we can do to help improve their quality of life, so it is always worth booking a consultation with your vet to discuss the options which are available to you.
Often, if you are at the stage where you are considering euthanasia then it is probably the right time to do it. Talking to our team can also help provide you with another point of view, options you may like to consider and ultimately, make you feel more confident in your decision, whether you decide it is time or not.
The Euthanasia Process
In some circumstances it is not possible to perform euthanasia anywhere other than the surgery as this allows the best opportunity to ensure that everything runs smoothly, which is ultimately less stressful for your pet. However, in some circumstances it may be possible to have it done at home. We will endeavour to make arrangements that are best suited to you and your pet whenever we can. When the time comes to make an appointment, telephone the surgery and a member of our team will guide you through the process and make the booking for you.
If you have booked an appointment at the practice, you are welcome to come straight into the waiting room on arrival. If you would prefer to wait in your car until your vet is ready for you, please let our reception team know. Where possible we will show you and your pet into a quiet room where you can spend some time with them until your appointment.
When the vet arrives they will talk you through the process and answer any questions you may have, they will also ask you sign a consent form. A veterinary nurse will also be present to assist the vet, they may need to hold your pet whilst the vet places a cannula or administers an injection as it is important the patient is kept very still to reduce stress. If you would like to hold or be close to your pet during the process, the team will guide you to a safe position to do so.
The euthanasia itself is a painless procedure for your pet and is usually over quickly. Depending on the individual animal, the vet may sedate your pet first; they may also place an intravenous catheter to ease the process. It is not always suitable, such as when a pet is elderly or unwell, as their veins can be very delicate and difficult to locate, especially if they have had sedation. The sedation may also cause your pet to feel a little nauseous but once they have drifted off, they will be unaware of anything else going on. The vet will assess each pet individually and make the recommendations that are best for them regarding the process. After the sedation, some people choose to leave if they do not wish to stay for the final injection.
It is up to you who you chose to have present for the euthanasia. We understand that this is a personal choice and will ensure that we take great care of your pet whether you are there or not, as they peacefully pass away. Afterwards, you have the option to spend some time saying goodbye if you wish. Don’t be afraid to ask us if you have any questions or would like us to do something that may help ease the process for you.
Cremation Services
You may choose to bury your pet in your garden providing they do not have an infectious disease or take them to a local crematorium of your choice. Alternatively, we can arrange for them to be cremated. We use the Surrey Pet Cemetery and crematorium. They offer both communal and individual cremations. With communal cremation the ashes cannot be returned, they are interred in the beautiful garden of remembrance in Surrey, which you are welcome to visit. Alternatively, you may choose to have your pet individually cremated allowing the return of their ashes to you. You can chose from a variety of scatter boxes, caskets and urns, please see the range here.
The crematorium would also be happy to talk to you if you have any additional questions.
Costs
It is a good idea to discuss costs with us beforehand, especially if you are considering individual cremation as this will incur additional expense. Please take a look at our price list for an idea of cost. Each euthanasia price can vary for each pet, please give the surgery a call and we can give you an estimate of costs if you wish. We understand that it is a very difficult time and want to make the process as straight forward for you as possible.
Follow up support
The grieving process is complicated and individual but help is available. There is no quick solution for dealing with the loss of a much loved pet. The Blue Cross also offer support online, over the phone and by email.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you wish to discuss euthanasia further with a member of our team.
