The decision to euthanize is never one that’s undertaken lightly. It’s a compassionate choice that helps spare furry family members from suffering, but none of that makes the act itself easier on pets or their owners. At home euthanasia presents an option that helps make this decision easier on both animals and people.
At home euthanasia:
- Allows pets to end their lives in an area that they recognize as safe and familiar.
- Gives owners greater access to the things they need to make their pets comfortable.
- Prevents animals that are in pain from the added stress of traveling.
- Allows owners to grieve in a safe, familiar atmosphere.
At home euthanasia happens in a familiar place.
Veterinarians’ offices are often scary places to pets. They are also full of the smells of unfamiliar animals, which can provoke anxiety in pets. When all of this is coupled with the fact that most animals only see their vet once or twice a year and can end up associating these visits with getting shots, having their temperatures checked, and other unpleasant things, it’s probably not surprising that many pets treat going to the vet like a scary thing. In an animal that’s already suffering from fear and pain, at home euthanasia spares them the mental distress of a vet visit and let them pass away in relative peace and comfort.
Owners can do what they need to make their pets comfortable.
Since a veterinarian’s examination room is designed to be able to be cleaned and sterilized easily, they have a minimum of soft furnishings or familiar scents. That means that there isn’t much that owners can do to help make their pets comfortable and at ease during euthanasia. At home euthanasia gives owners access to their pets’ beds, blankets, toys, and any other soothing, familiar-smelling objects that can help make things easier and less traumatic.
No traveling is required.
Very ill or injured animals often experience physical pain while traveling, too. It can be difficult for them to get in and out of a car, or even to walk. At home euthanasia allows them to pass away in their homes, without the added physical and mental stress of travel.
Owners have full control of the beginning of the grieving process.
Lastly, pets aren’t the only ones who need a safe atmosphere. At home euthanasia lets owners set up whatever they need to in order to grieve. Some choose to invite friends over that had a special relationship with their pet, some choose to light candles or say prayers. Grief is different for everyone, and at home euthanasia spares pet owners from having to experience theirs in a public place once the procedure is complete.
When it can be done, at home euthanasia can make virtually every aspect of the dying and grieving process easier for pets and their owners. If you own an elderly or ill companion animal, it is a choice that’s worth considering as part of your pet’s end of life plans.