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I recently had the pleasure of being introduced to an awesome book called Our Rescue Dog Family Album and its wonderful author, Dr. Diane Pomerance Ph.D.

As I researched Dr. Pomerance, I came across her web site and her blog.  The following information is from Dr. Diane's blog and is a great help in understanding "Euthanasia."

When is it Right to Euthanize Your Pet?

1). When your pet is diagnosed with and suffering from a terminal and disabling illness or disease, it is time to think about the possibility of ultimately having him euthanized.

2). “Euthanasia” is the Greek term for “good death.”

3). Deciding to euthanize your suffering pet is one of the most painful, difficult and complex decisions you can make.

4). Providing your pet with euthanasia can be one of the kindest, most compassionate, unselfish and humane decisions you can make.

5). Euthanasia can be one of the most heartbreaking yet merciful decisions you will ever make,

6). Only you can determine at what point the quality of life for your pet has deteriorated to the point at which euthanasia is warranted and advisable.

7). Although no one knows your pet better than you do, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian(s) as to when it is time to let your pet go.

8). When you have determined that your pet no longer enjoys any quality of life - he is incontinent, immobile, has difficulty breathing, refuses to eat or drink, has little or no interaction with you, no longer plays and sleeps most of the time - it may be time for him to be euthanized.

9). The actual process of euthanasia involves the veterinarian painlessly injecting a massive dose of sedative or barbiturate intravenously. Some vets employ two different injections – one to relax and sedate the pet; the second to stop the patient’s heart.

10). Following the procedure, it is very common for the pet’s guardian to experience intense personal grief, sadness and depression.

11). It is our moral and ethical responsibility as pet parents to do what is in our pet’s best interest and to alleviate unnecessary suffering.

For more information or any personal questions check out Diane Pomerance, Ph.D.

Reprinted with permission from Dr. Pomerance

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