| The decision to euthanize a pet is for most owners a difficult choice.
Consultation with your veterinarian will help you make the right choice. Some
pet owners are unable to cope with the daily care of an ill pet. The tasks around
the care, cleaning, feeding, and expense can build resentment towards the pet
and would rob them of happy memories. Some pets are euthanized because of behaviour
problems such as aggression and barking. Rather than consult their veterinarian
or an animal behaviorist, the owner opts for an easy out. They are focusing on
the possibility of law suits or eviction rather than the love for their pet. Healthy
dogs are also euthanized because the owners housing situation has changed. The
owner finds that they are moving to an apartment where no pets are allowed. Rather
than consulting their veterinarian or a pet placement service the owner opts for
euthanasia. They either do not feel they can trust someone else to love their
pet, have a distrust of the pet placement services, or do not want the expense
and trouble of finding someone to adopt their pet. We've all heard the
phrase "Quality of life, not quantity." When a dog becomes old, or ill, or is
in pain, it may be the best and kindest thing to let the pet go in peace and with
dignity. Your veterinarian should always be consulted before and during this decision.
He/she will know when the time is right for you and your pet so than neither your
nor your pet will suffer excessively physically or emotionally. The act
of euthanasia is never as bad as we fantasize. We can choose to be present or
not during the actual euthanasia. The shot is painless and many veterinarians
will tranquilize the pet before hand as many pets will react to the nervousness
of their owners and react likewise. Being with your pet gives you a chance to
say your final good-byes and put closure to your relationship. If grief seems
unbearable ask your veterinarian for some brochures dealing with loss of pets.
Be assured that if you have been consulting your veterinarian all along during
your pets life and illness, that you have now made a wise, informative, and correct
decision. Be at ease and turn your thoughts to happy memories. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Terrie Simpson | 
