“Compassion brings us to a stop, and for a moment we rise above ourselves.”
Mason Cooley
The decision on the timing of a euthanasia for a much-loved pet is a delicate one for you and the vet also, based in the enormity of the decision and the love and grief that you may feel.
I will listen to your wishes, acknowledge your bond, whilst advocating for your pet’s quality of life. The ‘timing’question is largely based on quality of life (scale and info in link below), likely progression of the particular condition and personal factors and beliefs.
I will agree to a compassionate in-home euthanasia if it is the right thing for you and your pet. Please call me to have a caring conversation so that you may feel supported and guided in this decision.
Some important points to consider when answering the timing question:
• Please refer to this excellent quality of life scale.
• Trust your veterinary care provider and ask questions relevant to your pet’s quality of life and pain experienced.
• Be aware that sometimes continued treatment may be more stressful than the condition itself.
• Be aware that most owners wait too long. Seek professional advice and support to reach the decision.
• Trust your intuition as much as you can. You know your pet well, her/his subtle changes, and when things have progressed. Use your intuition to raise questions to your caring veterinary service provider.
• Talk early to your family about your concerns, to have support and avoid potential familial conflicts later.
• View your ability to care for your pet’s veterinary needs in face of their advancing condition.
• Take care with the notion of a natural passing as there may be prolonged suffering to reach this.
