Reasons to Put Your Dog Down Compassionately

You might think that there will never be reasons to put your dog down, but unfortunately, these are all too common. Opting for dog euthanasia is a tough decision to make, and making sure that it is done with dignity and compassion is essential. Read on to reassure yourself that there will be times when considering putting your dog to sleep is okay.

Making the Decision

People who have gone through putting their dog to sleep often ask themselves if they acted too quickly. You should rest assured that your vet will agree with a decision for dog euthanasia if it means preventing your pet from further suffering. They will conduct an objective quality of life assessment beforehand.

There are often obvious signs that your dog’s quality of life is poor, and they are struggling to cope. These reasons to put your dog down include:

• Severe and unmanageable pain.
• Severe breathing problems.
• Untreatable injury.
• Deterioration through lack of eating.
• Loss of bladder control.
• Immobility.
• Terminal disease.

Home Visit From Your Vet

Your Cloud 9 vet can conduct a home visit, and they will be available 24 hours in an emergency. They can advise you about how to make your dog’s last few days as comfortable as possible. You’ll have the whole process explained as to how the vet will conduct compassionate dog euthanasia. 

Opting for gentle dog euthanasia at home lets you say goodbye to your special friend as they peacefully go to sleep in a familiar and comfortable place. They will be surrounded by friends and family, who also have the chance to say goodbye. 

There is no stress or anxiety as the process commences. Your vet will administer a first injection that will calm your dog and slowly put it to sleep. Then, a second injection is given, which gently stops your dog’s heart. Your dog cannot feel anything and is unaware of the process. So, there is no pain and no distress at all. 

Following the Procedure

Once the procedure has been completed, the vet will remain for as long as you need them. If you need them to help organise burial or cremation, then they can assist you. It is often a good thing to think about these options beforehand, as afterward, it may be too emotional to decide.

Coping With Grief Following Dog Euthanasia

Everyone deals with grief in different ways. You could be surprised at how deep and sharp your feelings of grief are. Try to get some support from friends and family, as it is much more challenging on your own. Many people find that having a memorial or keepsake for their dog helps with the grieving process. You might consider one of these:

Memorial service.

• Special burial place or spot to spread ashes.
• Making a scrapbook of your pet.
• Writing an obituary.
• Planting a memorial tree. 

Whatever your reason to put your dog down, you should know that you decided for the right reason. You have removed your friend from further suffering and allowed them to pass with dignity.