Never Forgotten.. Rainbow Bridge

What pet owners should know about euthanasia..

All pet owners understandably wish for a pet's peaceful passing, hoping to find them lying in their favorite spot in the morning. The impact of a pet's death is significantly increased when, as responsible and loving caretakers, we make the decision to have our pet humanely euthanized.

Preparing for the end of your pet's life is a difficult process, often requiring you to make a few important decisions. The veterinarian and the animal care staff  of Derry Animal Hospital are here to help guide and support you along the way during this difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will I know when it is time?

Electing euthanasia for your pet is always a difficult and emotional decision. Knowing when "it is time" is often not easy to determine. Our pets cannot readily communicate how they are doing medically, as they tend to hide how ill they truly are. Consulting with your pet's veterinarian for reassurance and guidance is important in helping to making any important medical decisions.

Do I schedule an appointment for this?

Making a scheduled  appointment is always a good idea. However, we will always make exceptions as best we can whenever an emergency situation arises and a pet is suffering.

Will it hurt my pet?

While euthanizing a beloved pet is always difficult for us as pet owners, the act of euthanasia itself  is not painful for the pet.  We administer a large dose of an injectable anesthetic. which, in itself, takes away pain. The patient only feels a small amount of pain during the act of placing the intravenous needle to make the injection. We occasionally administer a sedative for a few minutes prior to the euthanasia to help relax patients, if necessary.

How long does it take for the actual euthanasia to occur?

The intravenous injection works very quickly, only taking about 10-20 seconds for effect.

Do I have to stay with my pet during the euthanasia?

This decision is completely up to you and your family. Many pet owners want to be with their pets, while others do not care for the idea of being present when their pet is euthanized.

Aftercare Options

This decision can be discussed in more detail with either your veterinarian or veterinary care staff.

There are many pet-loss support resources available.   You can see many websites with links to recommended reading and grief counseling resources.

Healthy Pet - Pet Care Library

There are a number of good books recommended with special mention of children's resources.