Some veterinarians prefer to give a sedative tranquilizer prior to the euthanasia drug, which is given in the vein. The tranquiliser is either given as a tablet by mouth or a painless injection under the skin, ike a vaccination. The animal is then restful and the owner may elect to spend some quiet time saying goodbye. The euthanasia drug itself is an overdose of a barbiturate and administered through an IV catheter or with a needle and syringe. Unconsciousness then follows rapidly, usually within 30 seconds. Observers generally describe it as a quick and peaceful death.
Things to be aware of as death occurs are :
• The eyes may remain open
• There may be a last gasping breath, called agonal breath
• There may be vocalisation
• There may be muscle twitching
• The heart may continue beating for a short period after breathing has stopped
• The bladder and possible bowl contents may be released
• In most circumstances, you will notice nothing except a peaceful release of tension, as in “going to sleep”
Here are some tips on making the process less stressful
• Book an appointment during a quiet time of the vet’s day
• If possible sit with your pet in the car until the vet is able to see you
• If possible settle the bill upfront – try and avoid having to pay a bill in a distressed state after having to put your beloved companion to sleep
This is what happens to your pet’s body after euthanasia:
• After temporary cooled storage, you pet may be cremated by a pet cremation company
• You may choose to have the ashes returned to you. If this is the case it is important to tell the vet prior to the euthanasia procedure
• Occasionally pet owners request to keep their pet’s body for their own burial arrangements.
*Information courtesy of Bayer Animal Health