If your dog is gravely ill, very old or injured you may have to make the difficult decision about whether or not to put him to sleep (euthanize) . The important thing to remember, is that if your dog is suffering and you and your vet feel he will not regain a good quality of life, then euthanasia is a humane and responsible choice.
Translated from ancient Greek as "Good Death", euthanasia is usually performed by injecting a large dosage of barbiturates (an effective anesthetic) into the blood stream. This causes rapid sleep, unconsciousness and then cardiac arrest, usually within less then a minute. Some veterinarians may be able to come to your home, but mostly euthanasia takes place at the vet's clinic.
Reassurance
Some owners choose to be present while their dog is put to sleep. This gives them a chance to say a final goodbye. It is also the chance to reassure and comfort your dog and make sure that the final moments are filled with warmth and love.
Tasty Tips
However some owners find that it is too painful to be present when their dog is 'put to sleep'. This is an entirely acceptable choice as well. The vet will encourage you to spend some time alone with your dog before they give the injection. They will be kind, compassionate and make sure that the final moments are peaceful.
Your dog will have become a beloved family member and so it is entirely normal to feel a very deep sense of grief when he dies. Remember all of ,the wonderful and positive times you had together and be assured that you did your best to love your dog, care for him and make him happy right to the very end.
Related products
Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Related articles
Your Overweight Dog: When Bigger Isn't Better
Extra pounds can cause problems for your dog's overall health. Learn the signs that your dog might be overweight, and what you can do to manage its weight.
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Selecting the right food for your puppy is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life., Learn more about how to select the right puppy food.
The Advantages of Wet Dog Food
Learn how today's wet dog food blends have gotten a face lift, and how you'll provide your dog the nutrition he needs in the form he loves.
Choosing the Right Food For Your Small Dog's Life Stages
As small and toy breed dogs age, their nutritional needs change.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.