It’s a fact that no one really likes to think about, but the plain sad truth is that dogs just don’t live as long as we’d like them to.  A “lifetime” companion may only live only 20 years for example, with the last of those years being physically painful to a dog and emotionally painful for us. Or a spunky little fellow may get a severe injury or suddenly develop an untreatable disease. This article talks about putting a dog to sleep and your available options.

Your Dog – Your Choice

Deciding to put your dog to sleep isn't easy. Only in the most obvious cases is it absolutely necessary. It’s otherwise a very personal and heartfelt choice. There are those who strongly oppose it and there are those who strongly support it. You should know that you’re well in your rights to exercise a decision that’s right for your family and your dog.

Your Options

Depending on what you’re more comfortable with (and what your vet is willing to do), you can have your dog euthanized at your veterinarian's place of business, or you can have the euthanasia performed at your own home. Home euthanasia is a very personal experience that *could* make your dog’s passing a little more comforting to you, your family, and of course your dog since he will pass away in the company of the people he grew to love. If your vet doesn’t perform home euthanasia, she should have a few references on hand that point to mobile euthanasia specialists.

What To Expect

Before you put your pet down, you’ll need to make appropriate payment arrangements, transportation plans, and then disposal preparations. You’ll also need to decide whether you want to be with your pet during the process. It may feel extremely uncomfortable, but your pet may appreciate you being there as he enters a different dimension. He may even calm down during the procedure – making the entire event a quick and peaceful exit.

We won’t suggest an appropriate place for euthanasia – that decision is yours to make. But if you decide to have the procedure performed at home, you might feel better if it’s performed in your dog’s favorite place.

Once the location is settled, the dog will receive a sedative that will lull him into a drowsy state. After a short while, he’ll lie down. This is when you want to pet him, kiss him, and assure him that you love him. When you’re finished, your dog will get a dose of sodium pentobarbital. This will cause your dog to lose both his consciousness and his heartbeat.

Chances are you won’t want to leave your dog immediately and it’s important to know it’s OK to stay with him a little longer. You shouldn't feel rushed to dispose the dog’s body until you’re ready to.