Euthanasia

Euthanasia

"As life begins with love and awe, so should it end with compassion and grace"

Euthanasia is the process of giving an ethical and pain free death to a pet whose options for treatment have been exhausted.  Deciding to euthanize a pet is always an emotionally painful and tough decision to make.  You can find encouragement for recovery by joining support groups.  

The SPCA Pet Loss Support Group is available to help anybody grieving from the loss of a pet.  You can share and learn from others who are also grieving.      

phone number (919) 772-2326

website:

http://www.spcawake.org/site/PageServer?pagename=Humane_Ed_Pet_Loss_Support_Group

The Decision:

The Process:

Step One:  We start an IV (intravenous) and administer a sedative to make the pet comfortable and not anxious during the procedure.  During this time you and your loved ones are able to pet and talk to your pet until they fall asleep (usually 5-15 minutes).  

Step Two:  The second step is the actual euthanasia.  Once the pet is sedated, an injectable drug is given in the vein through the IV.  This medication suppresses the cerebral cortex (in the central nervous system) which is responsible for awareness.  The pet will become unconscious and then progress to anesthesia, which is the absence of pain, and then to stop the heart.  This is a peaceful process and is quick and painless for the pet.