The decision to euthanize a pet is not one that pet owners make lightly. Many pet owners struggle with a cascade of emotions, including grief, anger, and guilt. Find peace in your decision by learning about the euthanasia process, including what happens to your pet after the procedure. Once you know what to expect, you can make the decision that is best for your pet.
1. Your Vet Can Help Your Animal Relax Before the Procedure
Though having a beloved pet euthanized is anxiety-inducing in any circumstance, it is especially gut wrenching for owners whose pets are afraid of visiting the vet. They don't want their beloved friend's final moments to be stressful or chaotic.
To combat this issue, many vets offer their furry patients a sedative before administering the actual euthanasia shot. The sedative shot relaxes the pet so that owners do not have to see their beloved pet act frantic or afraid when they are saying their goodbyes.
2. Your Pet Will Pass Very Quickly
Pet owners don't want their pets to suffer. The time between the administering of the euthanasia shot and the pet's actual passing may be a concern for some pet owners.
However, once the vet administers the euthanasia shot, the pet passes nearly instantly, within seconds. The short duration of the procedure can be comforting to pet owners who want to know that their pet is at peace. Your vet will check your pet for a heartbeat to confirm that your pet has peacefully passed away.
3. You Have Options When it Comes to Disposing of Your Pet's Body
Before you attend the appointment, take a moment to decide what you want to do with your pet's remains once it passes. Some veterinarians will dispose of the body, usually for an additional fee.
If you want to take your pet back home for a private burial, make sure that local regulations in your town permit this. There are some towns with laws that govern the burying of animals. Towns that prohibit at-home pet burials may have a pet cemetery where you can lay your pet to rest.
Another option is to have your pet cremated. Look for a business that specializes in pet cremation. Once your pet passes, many of these pet cremation businesses will come and pick up your pet from the veterinarian's office. Others may require that you handle transportation of the body yourself. You can store your pet's ashes in an urn, or you can sprinkle the ashes at a spot that was special to you and your pet.
