The decision to euthanize your animal can be incredibly hard to make. Part of senior care for your animal could be speaking with a veterinary professional at an animal hospital about the process. At Fairview Veterinary Hospital in Independence, we have been answering questions about pet euthanasia for many years.

How Is a Dog Euthanized?

Most of the time, a dog is euthanized with an IV injection of an anesthetic agent. The animal is given an overdose to make them unconscious and then the part of the brain that tells the heart to keep beating shuts down. It can take anywhere from 30 to 60 seconds for the veterinary clinic to give the injection and the animal usually passes away by the time the injection is done.

Does the Process Hurt Your Pet?

Your dog will feel a needle prick when the injection goes in but will feel no pain aside from that. Most dogs won’t react to this injection, but if your dog is sensitive, you can speak with the veterinary clinic staff about applying numbing cream beforehand.

What Can You Expect After the Injection?

Since dogs have different eyelids than us, they don’t usually close their eyes. It is hard for them to close their eyes so your pet’s eyes will likely remain open. In some cases, they may pass urine since the muscles are relaxed. In some cases, your pet may take some gasps at the end. It is best to be aware of these possible outcomes before agreeing to pet euthanasia.

What Happens to Your Dog’s Body?

You typically have the choice about what to do with the body. You may be able to take him or her home and bury your dog. We can also arrange for your pet to be cremated.

How Will You Know When Euthanasia Is Right?

If your pet can’t experience things that he or she once enjoyed and is experiencing more pain then part of pet care is making the hard decision to consider euthanasia. Asking if your pet has more bad days than good days can help you make the decision.

Contact Our Animal Hospital for Senior Pet Care in Independence. 

For more information about the euthanasia process, pet care, and other senior care for your pet, contact Fairview Veterinary Hospital today by calling (816) 257-5454.