FAQ about Euthanasia

 

1.  Am I making the right decision?

 

    Fifty percent of all owners question their decision to euthanize. Some things to consider when faced with making with choice: Is this decision for me, or am I making it for my pet? What is my pet's favorite thing to do and how long has it been since they have done it? If I look at a picture of my pet in their prime, how far removed from that image are they now? What is his/her real life value - can they eat or drink without vomiting? Can they rise and walk on their own? Can they eliminate outdoors where they know it's okay to do so? Taking these things into consideration can help reaffirm that an owner has made the right decision. All of that being said, no matter what decision you make, it IS the right decision for you.

 

2.  What would you do if this was your pet?

 

    Many pet owners ask this question. Our doctors will always be advocates for your pet and give honest evaluations as far as prognosis and quality of life. However, if you are not ready to make the decision to euthanize, we will do everything we can to keep him/her comfortable.

3.  How do I explain this to my kids?

 

    Be honest and direct. Children have a very special bond with their pets, and it is important to make the decision a family decision if possible. Allow them to grieve and encourage them to tell stories about their furry friends. Remember that closure isn't necessary - it is good to always hold onto the happiness pets bring into our lives. Crying is okay and laughter is, too. 

 

4.  Should I be present at the time of the euthanasia?

 

    This is a purely personal choice. Some owners feel that they do not want the euthanasia to be the last memory of their pet. Others want to be present to comfort their pet. Both schools of thought are perfectly acceptable and we leave this decision up to the client. We prefer making appointments for euthanasia so that we have time to address any and all concerns and questions you may have. Whether you stay or not, our procedure is the same and we treat the situation with compassion and respect. 

 

5.  What happens during the procedure?

   

    The doctors have to access a vein in order to administer the injection that puts your pet to sleep.  Once the vein is accessed, the doctor will begin injecting the solution and within a very short period, your pet will relax and go to sleep.

 

6.  What do I do afterwards?

 

    Our clinic works almost exclusively with the Pines Pet Cemetery. This pet cemetery was established in 1966 and is a 35 acre park located in Warren County. The grounds are legally restricted to be preserved as a pet cemetery in perpetuity. You can choose a country burial, where your pet will be buried with other pets in a communal grave. There will not be a marker and there are no visitations.  You can also choose cremation and have the remains delivered back to the clinic for you to pick up when you are ready. The Pines has several types of urns to choose from, along with burial or internment at the columbarium. They also offer private burials with a grave site marker and have a chapel available for memorial services. We can arrange for country burials, but owners must arrange for cremations and private burials directly with The Pines. We have brochures in the clinic with more information, or you can call them with questions at (513) 932- 2270.

 

We encourage you when facing such a difficult decision, to consider what options are available to you. We have many resources that can help you decide with choices will be the best for you and your family and how to handle the grieving process afterward. We know the kind of care you have given to your animal friends over the years and this is the time when your pet needs you the most. A decision like euthanasia is never easy and it is natural to feel distressed by it. Choosing a peaceful death when you and your family can prepare and be present is a loving and brave decision that is reflective of the care you've always given your pet. If you have any questions at all about what to expect or how to make this decision, our staff is always willing to guide you and discuss your options. 

Submitted by Megan