Euthanasia

older cat

You may have concluded that it's time to euthanize a pet. Or, maybe the vet told you that euthanizing is in the pet's best interest. Now, you have a responsibility. You now have to explain to your child what happens during the process. You also have to emphasize the fact that the procedure is humane and necessary.

What's Euthanasia

When you're explaining what euthanasia is, you must start by explaining that a veterinary professional performs this procedure. This helps a child to understand that the pet is in good hands. Then, you'll need to explain that the pet gets put into a deep sleep and peacefully passes away. Then, you'll want to explain that the procedure is only performed on pets who are ill or are suffering immensely.

If your child would like to know more about the process, you can go into further detail about how the pet is given a special medication that instantly puts them into a deep sleep and allows the pet to pass away more comfortably.

Explaining Why Euthanasia Is Beneficial Sometimes

Your child may only see the fact that you're causing the end of the pet's life earlier than nature intended. This can concern a child. Therefore, they may have questions and wonder if it's necessary.

When you're explaining a pet being euthanized, you must explain that vets only perform this procedure on pets who are suffering. It helps stop the pet's pain or other unpleasant symptoms, so he or she doesn't have to suffer any longer. It's important to mention that the procedure is quick and painless for a pet, and it's often what's best for them if they are suffering.

Helping Your Child Cope

Explaining euthanasia to a child consists of more than just explaining the process and letting your child know that it's sometimes necessary. Your child has an emotional attachment to a pet, so the process also entails validating his or her emotions. It's important to reassure your child that you're doing what's best and that you're doing it because you care.

Your child may have questions about where the pet goes after his or her passing. You'll need to formulate a response based on your family's religious beliefs.

Euthanizing seems like a cruel practice to children. That's why you need to explain to a child that it's to keep a pet from suffering. It's also an excellent time to answer any questions your child has about death in general and remember to allow your child to say "goodbye" to his or her pet before the procedure.

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Location

Find us on the map

Testimonial

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Absolutely fantastic ! Dr Holbrook came to my house because my Carlos was so sick and about to die , I had taken him to another vet that does neuter/spay if you have shelter kitties ( mine are) and the next day he was dehydrated and wouldn't eat and had a terribly high fever.... Two days .... I called and Dr. Holbrook made him feel better by the very next day . Gave him meds for appetite, fluid, antibiotics and even came by the house to check and give further attention if needed . They have gone above and beyond their jobs .I have never seen such personal care or concern for my kitties in my life .... . I have to say in my opinion if your not happy with the care here you probably won't be happy anywhere! They are genuinely good people and great communication. Thank you Dr Holbrook for saving carlos life !!"
    Jana S. Southlake, TX

Featured Articles

Read about interesting topics

Newsletter Signup

Sign up for more articles