The word Euthanasia translates literally to “a good death.” Yet many pet parents struggle with the decision for this final and most profound act of love. The gift of a peaceful passing helps prevent suffering and honors the human-animal bond. That’s because natural death is typically not peaceful, painless, or without fear and anxiety. By contrast, euthanasia is performed in two stages, with the first stage being sedation for deep relaxation.
“Our goal is not only to relieve suffering, but to minimize anxiety and discomfort to help the patient die with dignity,” said Dr. Laurie Brush, founder of Heaven at Home Pet Hospice.
“Sometimes we see clients who realize they may have waited too long. If your pet is experiencing uncontrolled pain or difficulty breathing — these factors should weigh heavily in the euthanasia decision.”
Sometimes people need help processing their options. They need reassurance from a veterinary professional to know that they are making the most compassionate decision for their beloved companion animal. Planning ahead helps bring clarity to options and signs that it’s time.
Many hospice veterinarians use the “HHHHHMM” scale (Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility and More Good Days than Bad) to help determine where a pet is on the quality-of-life spectrum.
Pet parents can use an even simpler gauge:
- Make a list of three to five things your pet likes to do, such as going for walks, playing with other pets, or enjoying their meals. When your pet is consistently unable to enjoy 3 out of 5 of these things, it’s likely time to discuss euthanasia.
- Mark good and bad days on a calendar. This could be as simple as a happy or sad face for good or bad. As the bad days start to outnumber the good, it may be time to consider euthanasia.
This and additional advice can be found in the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center’s Honoring the Bond “How Will I Know?” booklet. The Heaven at Home team highly recommends this detailed road map to navigate quality-of-life decisions with love and clarity, so that families can avoid a crisis and say goodbye on a good day.
When the time comes, one option is to choose a home euthanasia to allow your pet to pass surrounded by love in familiar surroundings. Many families find that saying goodbye at home offers comfort and closure for both pet and owner. The decision to say goodbye is never easy, but you don’t have to make it alone.
Addressing anticipatory grief, working through decisions such as whether other pets and children should be present, and having confidence in your decision will help heal your heart. So will knowing that you gave the greatest gift of all – a compassionate, peaceful goodbye.
Download the OSU “How Will I Know?” booklet in our Tools Section.