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| PET LOSS & GRIEF |
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RESOURCES & INFORMATION
Pet Loss and Grief Support Center
Healing and Inspirational Poetry
Pet Loss and Support Resources
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EUTHANASIA PROCESS
We have provided this information to help answer questions you may have about euthanasia. We have included a brief overview of the euthanasia process so you can be familiar with our protocol.
FIRST - when you arrive we will attempt to make you and your pet comfortable and provide some degree of privacy. We want to follow your lead and continue at your pace. If you communicate your wishes we will do our best to accommodate you and your family. You are welcome to bring personal items from home and you are welcome to stay for either part or all of the euthanasia process. You are welcome to hold your pet in your arms or to sit with your pet on the floor. You will not be rushed. A Grandview Animal Hospital staff member will answer questions, finalize cremation details (cremation and burial options) and obtain signed consent for euthanasia. You may wish to provide payment at this time to allow for a more comfortable exit.
SECOND - in order to minimize restraint and discomfort we will place an intravenous catheter. We will remove your pet from the room for this process for a very short time. The catheter will be held in place by a small amount of tape and is usually located in the front leg. This catheter will allow us to inject medications without restraint or additional needle sticks. We will return your pet to the room and allow you to take as much or as little time as you desire before proceeding. When you are ready we will return and answer any additional questions. We will find a comfortable position for you and your pet and administer the first injection (sodium thiopental). This sedative will produce an unconscious state and relax your pet. We will not proceed until an animal is completely unconscious. The second injection (sodium pentobarbital) is administered slowly and will result in stopping respirations and cardiovascular (heart) circulation. This happens quickly and is usually very peaceful for the pet. There may be slight muscle tremors, a change in respiratory rate, urination, defecation or very rarely vocalization. An animal's eyes usually stay open as they pass away. The doctor will examine your pet's vital signs and tell you when they have passed. At this time you are welcome to spend as much additional time with your pet as needed.
LASTLY - if you leave your pet for cremation we will place them in cold storage until our twice weekly pick-up by Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens for Pets. If desired, you may transport your pet directly to Rolling Acres Memorial Gardens for Pets. If you are planning on taking your pet home for burial you may bring a box or blanket for transport, occasionally we have cardboard caskets available.
If you have questions about euthanasia, please call our office at 816-761-5071. |
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