Veterinary euthanasia is the fancy name for putting an animal down. It refers to the practice of deliberately ending the life of an animal, using humane methods.

The decision to euthanize a pet is often gut-wrenching, even if it’s medically necessary. Veterinarians who perform or oversee euthanasia must be sensitive to the pet owner’s stress level while discussing the topic.

As euthanasia is often one of several options available in treating an animal, the veterinarian should explain to the client (pet owner) associated options with all costs involved, with clear distinctions made regarding what is best for the animal.

If the veterinarian sees no recourse other than euthanasia, the option should be communicated to the client with sensitivity and compassion. If the owner refuses to euthanize the animal and the animal will suffer to the point that a report to the Ontario SPCA needs to be made, the veterinarian should advise the owner and where feasible, make such a report.

Since euthanasia is a procedure that cannot be reversed, it’s recommended that the veterinarian obtain informed consent from the client beforehand. After the decision is made, euthanasia should take place as soon as possible in order to reduce pain, fear, and anxiety in the animal.

Finally, a veterinarian is not obliged to offer euthanasia as an option. In many cases, veterinarians may refuse to perform euthanasia if it is not medically necessary - for example, when an animal is no longer wanted as a pet. In that situation, the owner should be given options, such as surrendering the animal to a shelter or to the practice.

Ssee the College of Veterinarians of Ontario Guidelines, “Veterinary Euthanasia” (2008), online at www.cvo.org/uploadattachments/Euthanasia.pdf