Euthanasia Methods and Protocols

posted: by: Bynum Veterinary Clinic Tags: "Clinic Specials" "News" 

Saying good-bye is never easy.  We want to provide you with the information you need to help make some difficult decisions you have before you.

The human-animal relationship is a strong bond.  The Bynum Veterinary Clinic and its Staff understand how important a bond-centered practice is.

In a bond-centered practice, veterinary care is focused where the medical needs of animals and the emotional needs of humans coincide.  This point of attachment is referred to as the human-animal bond.  In our practice, the unique significance of each human-animal relationship is assessed and respectfully acknowledged.  We address the needs of the animal patients and human clients simultaneously.  This is accomplished by providing both quality and medical-based and support-based services.

We want to provide you with the information you need to help make some difficult decisions you have before you.  We hope you will find this information very helpful and we hope this information will make this sad time a little easier for you.

If at any time you have any questions concerning your pet, please don't hesitate to ask any one of our staff members.

Will you be there for me?

I remember the day when we first met,
The day you chose me as your pet.

You have fed and cleaned and cared for me.
I have been a better friend than any human could be.

You have given me rides in the car and walks in the grass,
New chew toys and puppy class.

You have shared you dinner and shared your bed.
You have given me baths and put bow on my head.

I have watched over our family and guarded our yard.
It was my pleasure so it was not very hard.

I have been making you smile for many years.
I have kissed your face and tasted your tears.

Have you noticed lately how I have aged with grace?
I am getting clouds in my eyes and grey on my face.

It is harder to hear you and harder to see.
And sometimes I cannot make it outside to pee.

We both realized someday we would part.
But my memory can always stay young in your heart.

I have been the best friend I could possibly be,
So in the end will you be there for me?

I want you to choose when my passing is due,
And be there for me as I was there for you.

Stroke my ears and tell me how good I have been,
And how we will see each other again.

I know how sad this day will be,
But, thank you friend,
For being there for me.


Once you realize the time for your pets euthanasia is near, it is helpful to do as much planning and preparing ahead of time as possible.  The purpose of this outline is to make you aware of the many choices you have about your pet's death.  And remember, please discuss any decisions you are uncertain about with Dr. Bynum or a staff member.

EUTHANASIA METHODS AND PROTOCOLS

A. Assessment
  1. Why euthanasia?
    What is your pet's quality of life?  How is your pet doing?
  2. When to perform euthanasia?
    You are the only one who can decide this.  You know your pet better than anyone.  You will know when your pet is ready.
B. Planning and preparation
  1. The procedure - Euthanasia is a way to help your pet die.  A catheter will be inserted before the procedure.  A lethal dose of Euthasol will be administered through the catheter into the vein.  Within 30 seconds to 1 minute, the brain, then lungs, then heart will stop.  The procedure is peaceful and quick.
  2. Who will be involved?  Do you want someone with you?  We recommend you do bring a driver with you.  Do you want other pets with you?  Do you want your spouse, children, or other family member with you?
  3. Choose a site - We have three options available to you.  First, we have a secluded place inside the clinic.  Second, we can choose a site outside of the clinic if you choose.  And last, Dr. Bynum can come to your home. (there are additional charges for coming to your home)
  4. Set a time- Before deciding on a time, make sure you take lots of pictures.  Take a bunch of pictures.  Include family members, friends, and other pets in these pictures.  You will cherish these pictures.
  5. Choose body care issues - There are different services available to you.  Your pet can be sent home with you for burial.  Other options include, pet cemetery, private cremation and communal cremation.  "Pets at Peace" in Tulsa, provides some of these services for us.
  6. Handle paperwork and finances.  We recommend you take care of all paper work before the euthanasia is performed.
C. Saying good-bye
  1. You need to decide if you would like to be with your pet during the euthanasia.  Spending time alone the last few minutes can be very helpful to you in your grieving.
  2. A linking object may be something important to you.  For example, a clip of fur, a picture, a paw print or your pets blanket.
  3. A purposeful ending helps with healing.  Sharing a special story about your pet will help you to remember your pet.  You might choose to make a donation in the name of your pet to one of your favorite animal organizations.
We hope this information has been helpful to you with the decisions you may be facing.