If a pet owner and an office for Veterinary Diagnostics in Arlington VA have made the difficult decision to put a sick pet to sleep, the pet’s owner may have questions such as, “can I stay with my pet?” or “can we do it at home?” By learning the facts of euthanasia, families can develop a sense of peace about what will happen.
Getting Ready
Euthanasia can be given at the office of veterinary diagnostics in Arlington VA or at home. Not all vets are willing to make house calls, however. The family should take the time to say goodbye and children should be prepared in advance for what’s about to happen. If the procedure is to be done in the vet’s office, bring the pet’s pillow, blanket or bed along so they’ll have a comfortable, familiar place to rest.
The Euthanasia Process
Some pet owners choose to sit with their furry friends to offer comfort as the vet administers the medication. Most vets give a sedative before euthanasia drugs are given. In large doses, pentobarbital quickly results in unconsciousness, followed by the shutdown of the vital organs quickly thereafter. When a pet passes away, his or her eyes may not close fully. It can be startling, but it is part of the process, and it means the pet is no longer in pain.
In-Home vs. In-Office Euthanasia
An in-home procedure can be simpler if the pet has difficulty moving or is easily panicked. If there are other animals in the home, they may be confused if one of their friends leaves the home and never comes back. On the other hand, some families don’t want to associate their homes with the loss of a beloved animal.
If a family wants to bury their pet at home, they should check local laws to ensure that doing so is legal. Many choose cremation for their pets. Visit Business Name to find out which services they can recommend. Putting a pet to sleep is the final act in a lifetime of love and care, and it is a way for pet owners to ensure that their companions are treated with compassion in their final moments of life.
