Euthanasia...What to Expect...
Euthanasia in Greek means a "good death". You may know it as putting a pet to sleep or putting an animal down. It's a common situation and is not easy to contemplate. Many pets suffer with chronic disease such as cancer, which dimishes the quality of life quite quickly. Certainly 'quality of life' is a personal judgement. You know your pet better than anyone else. The final decision about euthanasia rests with you.
Making the appointment....
Be sure to tell the receptionist that you would like to schedule the appointment when the veterinarian of your choice is available. You might request that the appointment be the last one of the day.
The Appointment...To Be There or Not To Be There....
It is your personal choice to be present or not. Some people choose to hold their pet while the procedure is being performed, others just want to be present in the room to watch or others may choose to spend some time with the body after the procedure is complete.
The Last Moments...The actual Procedure...(Click this link to read a description of the actual Euthanasia procedure.)
Grief....
It is perfectly reasonable to ask "How do I know that the ashes I receive are my pet's ashes?" Most people want that assurance. The cremation service we use is "Gateway Pet Memorial Services" and we are confident that the service they provide complies with the service they offer. (
www.gatewaypetmem.com) It is a goverment regulated crematorium. You may call them if you are concerned. Some people may want to bring flowers, poems, letters, pictures or their pets favorite teddy bear to go along with the body to be cremated. You may ask to have some hair clipped as a remembrance or choose to keep your pet's collar and tags. You may want someone to be with you to drive you home afterwards. You may be surprised by your personal response to the event despite your careful consideration. We recognize that it is a very emotional and difficult time for you.