| End of Life Care |
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| The decision to euthanize a beloved pet is never easy. Sometimes the decision is clear when a pet has terminal disease and their quality of life cannot be sustained. More often, chronic diseases like arthritis or cancer cause a slow decline in function that makes it harder to decide when the time is right. Because a peaceful natural death cannot be assured, pet owners are usually faced with a decision about euthanasia. Frank discussions about disease progression and quality of life are invaluable in coming to terms with these issues. In addition to talking with your veterinarian, your family, and your friends, there are many online resources that can help as well.
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| What happens when the decision is made to say goodbye? |
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| From the Greek words meaning "easy death", euthanasia refers to the administration of an overdose of an anesthetic medication to cause rapid and painless death. Prior to the injection of the euthanasia solution, an injection of a narcotic for pain and a sedative to relieve anxiety may be given. The injection may be given directly into the vein, or through an intravenous catheter. Once injected, the euthanasia solution quickly (within 20-30 seconds) causes loss of consciousness, slows the breathing, and finally causes the heart to stop. |
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| How can we make the process less stressful? |
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| Because the exact timing of euthanasia cannot always be anticipated and does not always fit within the scope of a regular business day, we routinely accommodate urgent euthanasia appointments during our regular office hours (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-1pm) and on our emergency service overnight and on weekends. We have a separate consultation room at our hospital that offers a "less clinical" experience for euthanasia if desired. We have couches and chairs and ample floor space for family members to gather around their pet without exam tables, computers and medical equipment in the way. For people and pets who would be more comfortable at home, we can provide house call appointments for established clients both on an urgent basis (schedule permitting) and with advance notice. |
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| Several local veterinarians also provide home euthanasia service: |
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| What happens after? |
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| Following death, there are several options available for handling of the remains. Many people choose to bury their pet at home, but we advise always checking local neighborhood, city, and county ordinances governing home burial before deciding on this option. Cremation services for our patients are performed at Bubbling Well Pet Memorial Park in Napa. Several options are available for private or group cremation, as well as whether ashes are returned to owners, deposited at the pet cemetery or rose garden at Bubbling Well, or deposited in a rural location distant to Bubbling Wells. Further information can be obtained from your veterinarian or on the Bubbling Well website. |
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| Because grieving the loss of a pet takes many forms and varies tremendously in duration and intensity, each person's process of dealing with the loss is very different. From websites to books to formal pet loss support groups, the links below can help you through your process of losing your companion. |
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