Making the decision to put your pet to sleep is never an easy one. But sometimes it’s the most humane option. At Hôpital Vétérinaire Mercier, we are here to help you make a decision and support you during this difficult time.
Common reasons for euthanasia
Your veterinarian might recommend euthanasia for various reasons:
Illness: Euthanasia may be recommended when an animal has a terminal illness or a disease that causes a great deal of suffering, and there are no options for relieving the suffering.
Old age: Older animals may have greatly reduced physical abilities. Moving or eating might be very difficult. Pets might also lose their senses, experience incontinence or suffer from age-related diseases.
Dangerous or aggressive behaviour: Euthanasia may be considered if an animal is highly aggressive and poses a threat to you, your loved ones or strangers. In this case, a behavioural assessment is required to determine why an animal is showing aggression and assess whether it is a persistent, permanent behaviour or an isolated incident.
Our veterinary team will be able to advise you and answer all of your questions.
What is euthanasia?
Euthanasia is a procedure that ends your elderly or sick pet’s suffering when there is no other treatment solution. It relieves your pet’s suffering as their health condition deteriorates.
What happens during euthanasia?
We bring your pet into a welcoming, peaceful room. The veterinarian first administers a sedative to alleviate any pain or anxiety. Once the sedative has taken effect, the euthanasia solution is administered to send the animal into a painless sleep and stop their vital functions.
Can I be in the room with my pet?
You can absolutely stay with your pet during their final moments. Or you can wait outside the room— the choice is entirely up to you. If you decide not to accompany your pet, rest assured that a member of our team will be at their side.
Some pet owners find that being present can help start the grieving process. However, we understand how heart-wrenching this moment is, and we respect your choice either way.
