Unfortunately, there comes a time in the life of all pets when the possibility of a recovery to a comfortable existence is highly unlikely. Often medical intervention may not provide a level of comfort acceptable to the animal's family. Euthanasia is often considered in these circumstances to hasten the pet's death. The decision to euthanize a beloved pet is among the most difficult choices a pet owner must make. Consultation with your veterinarian will help your family determine whether euthanasia is appropriate.
At VCA New Hartford animal Hospital, we have a dedicated comfort suite where we allow families to gather when euthanizing their pet. Families are escorted to the room and allowed to spend as much time as needed with their pet before the procedure. Once the family is ready, your veterinary technician will take your pet to the treatment room to place an IV catheter. Your pet is then returned to you and when you are ready, your veterinarian will come in and euthanize your pet.
Euthanasia is accomplished by administering an anesthetic overdose into a vein through an IV catheter. Because an anesthetic is used, no discomfort is perceived by the patient. The patient passes quickly. Your veterinarian will ensure that your pet’s heart, pulses and breathing have stopped. We encourage pet owners to stay with their pets through the procedure. If this is not your choice, we will perform the euthanasia with one of our compassionate staff members.
Prior to euthanasia, pet owners should decide how their pet's body will be cared for. This reduces the emotional stress at the time of the procedure. Our hospitals provide a range of respectful options including taking your pet home for burial, communal cremation or private cremation where we return your pet’s ashes back to you. We have an onsite crematory, so all our cremations are performed by our trained and compassionate staff.
Please call our office if we can help with this difficult decision or to answer any questions you may have.