The decision to bid a final farewell to a pet is one of the hardest to make, but it can also be one of the bravest and kindest.



All of the staff here, at Castle Vets, are pet owners and most of us have had to make the tough decision to say goodbye to a beloved pet at some point, so please do not hesitate to call if there is anything you wish to discuss regarding the euthanasia of your pet - we are here to help and support you as much as we can at this difficult time.



The decision to put a pet to sleep may have to made for a huge variety of reasons, and your vet will be able to discuss this with you and help you to make the right decision when the time comes.



Euthanasia usually happens at the surgery and we will make an appointment that allows lots of time,at a quieter time of day where possible. We understand that it's a very distressing time and a home visit can be arranged if you would prefer to say goodbye in the privacy of your own home. This can also be of benefit to very poorly or elderly pets, who may find travelling to the surgery particularly stressful.



What happens beforehand?

 

When the decision to put your pet to sleep has been made, you will be asked to sign a consent form for euthanasia. This document is a legal record confirming that you have authorized us to proceed with your pet's euthanasia.



Should I stay with my pet?



This is very much a personal choice. Some people prefer to stay with their pet and the euthanasia will only commence when you are ready, you will be able to stroke and comfort your pet during the procedure. If you prefer not to stay, you are welcome to return to the room afterwards to say good bye, but equally we understand if you prefer to leave and remember your pet as they were.



What will I see?



A  veterinary nurse will help hold your pet and the vet will clip a small area of fur, usually on a forelimb, so that the vein can be seen. The vet will administer an overdose of anaesthetic into the vein. Your pet will rapidly and peacefully lose consciousness. The vet will listen to check that the heart has stopped and confirm when your pet has passed away. Afterwards there may be muscle twitching and reflex gasping - these are all normal muscle reflexes that occur after the heart has stopped. Your pet may urinate or defaecate as the body relaxes and their eyes do not close.



Sometimes it is necessary for us to sedate your pet prior to euthanasia if they are especially stressed or aggressive. Sedation is given via a quick injection into the muscle and normally  takes between 5 and 15 minutes to take effect. The sedation causes low blood pressure and this sometimes means that it takes longer for the anaesthetic injection to work, but your pet will be completely asleep by this point so it will not cause your pet any distress at all.



What happens afterwards?



You can leave your pet in our care and we can arrange for your pet to be cremated individually at family-run specialist pet crematorium, CPC, where your pet will be given a dignified farewell. The ashes will be placed in the casket or box of your choice. The ashes will then be returned to us ready for you to collect. You are welcome to attend your pet's cremation and you may be able to take the ashes straight home with you - if you would like to attend the crematorium please let the vet know prior to the euthanasia so that we can make arrangements for you.



We can also arrange for your pet to be cremated with other animals at CPC. This is a less expensive option, but ashes will not be returned to you.



You may choose to take your pet home to bury and we will wrap your pet in a blanket or towel for you to take them home in.