How is euthanasia performed?
Euthanasia is performed via a single intravenous injection. Your veterinarian will place an intravenous catheter for administration of the drug. The drug is a highly concentrated anesthetic agent so the effects are rapid. It causes a deep general anesthesia prior to causing death so your pet will not be in any discomfort. Occasionally an animal will have some final breath sounds or rarely vocalize. This is completely normal and is no indication of pain or stress. You will want to consider whether or not you wish to be present at the time of injection. Many owners feel it is best if they can be there during the final moments to comfort their pet. Some owners would rather remember their pet the way they were in life and will leave the pet with us for the euthanasia. Should my young children be present during the euthanasia? The death of a family pet is often a child’s first experience with the loss of a beloved friend and can be difficult for them. The lessons they learn may help them co
