The right time
The perfect time does not exist, but the right time does.
Deciding on euthanasia can be one of the hardest decisions a pet owner may face. It is an extremely individualised choice and differs between every owner and pet, but there are ways to help make the decision.
Making the decision
With the bond you share with your pet, you are the best one to determine when the time is near. However, the decision to say goodbye is not one you must make on your own. You are encouraged to seek support and speak with your local veterinarian, family and friends.
Quality of life Survey
It may be helpful to have multiple people complete this survey independently and then compare answers. It can help come to an immediate decision or used over time to compare and track subtle changes (eg. every few days in declining health or every few weeks to months in slower declines).
Please see this link to Ohio State University Veterinary Medical centre's full article on decision making along with their survey.
Veterinary consultation
Consultation with a veterinarian can assist with decision making as well as provide advice on palliative and end-of-life care.
During this consultation your pet may be examined and you may be asked some questions to help determine their quality of life or if there are any recommended interventions to improve their end of life experience.
Your vet may recommend a blood test, pain or anxiety relief medications, or simple at home recommendations to make your pet more comfortable. Please speak with your veterinarian about what may be best for you and your pet.
Family and friends
There is a tribe of people who admire your pet and would want what is best for you and them.
Remember, other people have been through this. Please reach out.
Family and friends may have different interactions with the pet and therefore, provide fresh perspectives. These are the people who get to see your pet in their everyday life and can provide valuable input in the decision making process.
Joy List
Write down 3-5 things that your pet loves to do (eg. going for walks, getting excited when you come home, play time). When they can no longer consistently enjoy doing these things then it may be time to discuss euthanasia.
Calendar
Mark good days and bad days on a calendar. As the bad day start to outweigh the good days, it may be time to consider euthanasia.
Comparing
Reviewing old photos or videos may make it easier to realise significant declines in mobility, or changes to their appearance, behaviour or interactions with you.
If you are wanting assitance with end-of-life decision making for your pet, a consultation with a veterinarian can be a valuable tool for guidance and support.
Will my pet tell me?
Many owners hope that when its time their pet will pass peacefully on their own without suffering. Of course this would be the ideal situation, but in reality it rarely occurs. Many distressing changes can happen during the process of dying: for you, your family and your pet. In-home euthanasia provides a controlled, pain-free option and ensures your pet is not alone when they pass.
Pets often hide pain, suffering, and chronic conditions so their behaviour become familiar and we struggle to consider their quality of life for what it truly may be. If you find yourself hoping that your pet will pass in their sleep, it may be time to start speaking about and considering humane euthanasia. You do not have to rush. Its okay to slow down, take some deep breaths, start by taking it day-by-day and appreciating each day as an additional gift. Humane euthanasia can be viewed as a relief of unnecessary suffering and for many it will be the final gift given to their lifelong companion. Many families share that they waited too long; they rarely say that they made the decision too soon.
Sometimes the decision is clear, but many owners will not be 100% sure or change their mind multiple times about the decision. Second guessing does not mean it is the wrong choice. If you think it is the right time, it may help to visualise the process. Picture the most idyllic environment; where your pet is lying and who is around. Rest Easy Pet aims to make these final moments a blessing.
Sometimes, we prolong the choice to euthanise because we are not ready, not because they aren't.
"Euthanasia is not natural"
Disease and illness is a natural part of life and medical care provided by veterinarians, by definition, interrupts this process. Pet ownership also greatly extends the life expectancy of an animals life and therefore, age-related illness and decline becomes more common. The aim is not so much to disrupt a natural process, but to promote a good quality of life, free of unnecessary suffering. When we are no longer able to maintain this quality of life, euthanasia becomes a kind option.
“Euthanasia is often not so much a question of ‘artificially ending’ a life, but of when to cease artificially extending that life.”
– Moira Anderson Allen
Every decision is treated with respect. A pre-euthanasia phone consult is included after booking to ensure all parties are comfortable with the decision for humane euthanasia.
How will I cope?
It is very natural for this decision making process to bring up anticipatory grief, which is the grief that occurs before a pets death. Grieving our pets can bring up intense emotions that resemble mourning the loss of a family member. While some may not understand, there are plenty more who do. Please see grief resources for support.
Better three hours too soon than a minute too late
- William Shakespeare