As life begins with love and awe, so should it end with compassion and grace.
The Decision
As the guardian of a pet, the decision of whether or not to choose to euthanize can be a very difficult and very painful one. In our almost 50 combined years of experience as a veterinarian and veterinary technician, we have seen pet owners struggle with this decision in many different ways. Some people seem to know when it is time; however most of us second-guess ourselves when making this difficult decision. Almost everyone asks us if we feel this is the time for their pet to go. They ask us if they are making the right decision for euthanasia.
If we have been your pet's veterinarian, or if your pet has been under the care of the veterinarian and those records have been sent to us with time to review, we can definitely help you with that answer. We can help guide you and your family through the decision-making process and help you keep the best interest of your pet in mind. If we have never seen your pet before, and have no veterinary history to help us, we cannot honestly tell you with one glance or one quick examination if your pet should be euthanized. A pet, especially an older pet, may have a medically manageable condition resembling something terminal. Before considering an option as serious and as fatal as euthanasia, you may want to give your pet the benefit of a veterinary examination and consultation or some basic lab testing first.
Alternatively, you may be one of those people who just know it is time. Your pet may be old and failing and you have noticed that your pet's quality of life has gotten progressively worse, and feel very sure that euthanasia is the right decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and we are here to help.
If you would like to schedule either an evaluation or euthanasia, please call at (406) 404-7600. We do not recommend scheduling both an evaluation and a euthanasia at the same appointment.
The Final Act of Love
When the time comes, deciding on euthanasia at your home can be the kindest gift you give to your pet. Choosing euthanasia at home can eliminate the stress, anxiety, and the discomfort of a drive and unfamiliar smells and surroundings. You can choose where you want the veterinarian and assistant to see your pet. Most often this is in your home, a favorite place in the home, or in the yard.
What to Expect
When we arrive, we will check in with you and your pet first. We will spend some time to be sure everyone is comfortable. You can have friends and family and other pets present if you like. It is advised that children not be present for the euthanasia. Though we recommend having discussions with your children about your plans, it is very important that you have discussions with them prior to this visit. If you have questions on this, please let us know. This decision,however, is ultimately up to you.
When you are ready, your pet will receive a series of 2 or 3 injections. Our goal is to make this as comfortable as possible for your pet. The injections do not sting or hurt. The first injection is a combination of a tranquilizer and a narcotic to alleviate anxiety and pain. This will make your pet sleepy and they will look comfortable, sometimes they will even snore. If needed, we will give a second injection of this medication to be sure your pet is as relaxed as possible. It usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes to feel the effect of these medications. When ready, the final injection, similar to an anesthetic, will be given into the bloodstream. As this last injection is being given your pet will first fall under a peaceful anesthesia, and sometimes you will notice the deep breaths of anesthesia. This injection takes only a minute or two, and we will always give more of this medication than is needed.
We will confirm your pet has passed, and then let you have as much time as you need. If we have made arrangements for cremation, we will caringly transport your pet to the crematorium.