Euthanasia
Pet Euthanasia, Saying Goodbye to your loved ones
We understand that when the time comes to say goodbye to your beloved pet that it can be extremely difficult. Regardless of whether it be due to old age or illness, our team are here to support you through this difficult time.
When will I know its time to say goodbye?
Your vet will be able to help you by explaining what can be done medically to help your pet. What the limits are to treatment and what to do when that limit has been reached. However, you as the owner and the person who knows your pet the best will be able to see if they are suffering or if their quality of life has diminished.
We feel you should ask yourself these questions
- Can they still eat, drink, sleep and move around reasonably comfortably?
- Does he or she respond to your presence and greet you?
- Does feeding time attract interest?

Do we get the chance to say goodbye?
Yes of course. We have a special room for you to spend your final moments with your pet and say your final goodbyes. We handle each case individually and understand that each person’s grief is different. However, we will always be, compassionate, honest and patient when the time comes. If you do not wish to be present you can rely on us to treat your pet sympathetically even in your absence.
Once you have said your final goodbyes you can choose between taking your pet home for a private burial or we can arrange for your pet to be cremated for you. We have a wide range of urns and caskets to choose from or you may wish to have your pet’s ashes returned in a scatter tube. Maybe even to have the ashes scattered in the garden of remembrance. Whatever your choice, we are here to help and support you through the whole process
Euthanasia FAQs
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The intention of euthanasia
The main goal of animal euthanasia is to alleviate suffering. Numerous factors will be considered before opting for this option. The extent and nature of the disease or injuries. Other treatment options, the prognosis and potential quality of life after treatment. The availability and likelihood of success of treatment. The animal’s age and/or other disease/health status. As well as the owner’s ability to pay for private treatment are all factors to consider.
What to expect during the appointment?
The veterinarian will go over the procedure and what to anticipate. Do not be afraid to ask questions or express your concerns. You will be asked to sign a consent form to show that you understand what is going to happen. And that you grant the vets permission to proceed. The appointment will be very relaxed, and your pet will be treated with dignity and care the entire time. Pets who are prone to becoming agitated or stressed can be given a light sedative before the procedure. This will help make their final moments peaceful and relaxed.
Euthanasia will be performed by administering an injection, typically into a vein on the front limb. One of the nurses will carefully hold your pet while the vet administers the injection. Although your pet may sense a sharp scratch, the injection should be painless.
The injection is an anaesthetic, administered in a higher-than-usual dose to stop the heart. As with all anaesthetics, your pet will first feel sleepy before falling comfortably unconscious within a few seconds. After a brief period, their breathing and heart rate will cease, and the doctor will examine your pet with a stethoscope.
Can I stay with my pet until the end?
This decision is completely up to you. Often, people will talk this through with their friends or family to decide what is right for them. Some people find being with their pet at the end of their life helps with coming to terms with the loss. Or they feel they want to be there to reassure their pet. Others find it too distressing. Sometimes people choose to be present at the start but leave the room during the procedure and return at the end. Your vet understands how difficult this is for you so shouldn’t pressure you either way. Do whatever feels right for you and your pet.
To enquire about Pet Enthanasia at Trusted Vets in Wolverhampton click here
After euthanasia, what happens?
After your pet has died, you will be asked what you want to do with their remains. You can select:
Cremation – this is typically a communal cremation with other dogs, but you can arrange for individual ashes to be returned
Burial – there are pet cemeteries that veterinarians usually have information on, or you can take their body home to bury them.
If you are unsure, veterinarians can usually store the body while you consider your options.