I believe that by now readers of my column would have noticed that I have a fixation with definitions – mainly to ensure there is no misunderstanding when unaccustomed terminologies are used. “Euthanasia” is one such word that may need clarification. For example, in order to alleviate some of the pain which the caregiver is experiencing with the terminally ailing pet, the veterinarian may introduce the option of “putting the pet to sleep”. The owner, in his/her desire to (c)ease the suffering of the companion animal, might interpret the intervention literally, viz the animal will go to sleep temporarily, and wake up later with less exhibition of pain and suffering. But in the case of irreversible ailment, which is causing much suffering to the animal and unbearable anguish in the household, “Put to sleep” is not a temporary intervention; it is permanent. The animal will not wake up – ever. The veterinarian and the clinic staff must make this very clear during discussions prior to the final decision.
At my clinic, we ensure that the permission of the owner/caregiver to permanently end the life of the pet must be recorded and signed off. This special document is important, and I have been willing to share the text with my colleagues. Veterinarians must ensure that the text is read and understood prior to the introduction of the lethal concoction.
Defining Euthanasia
I must mention, relative to the definition and explanation of the term Euthanasia, that the associated words must be couched not just in the science involved in the actuality of the intervention, but must reflect compassion and understanding of the client’s feelings at that point and time.
I have often referred to the veterinarians’ “bible”, that has been produced to aid veterinarians in their practice. Yet, in arriving at a definition, it speaks of Euthanasia as “killing the animal” – although it adds “in a humane manner, making death easy and painless for the animal”. Thay may be all well and good. However, the work “killing” overshadows all other concepts associated with the actual procedure.
The caregiver must feel that the final act is designed to prevent and dispel fear, distress, and anxieties. If reassurance is needed, the caregiver must ask and receive supportive answers to queries pertaining to the methodology used in ending the life of the suffering pet. The definition that best resonates with me is as follows: “Euthanasia is the term used to describe ending the life of an animal in a way that eliminates or minimizes pain and suffering.”
The caregiver must (and usually will) understand that, often, even the sick pet exhibits distress and anxiety in the clinic before it loses consciousness. It is the reason why the pet is given a sedative. The introduction of this chemical takes less than three seconds. During the time it takes for the action of the sedative to kick in, the caregiver may choose to stay with the animal – providing final expressions of TLC.
The caregiver will then be asked to leave the room prior to the administration of the lethal intravenous intervention. I must mention, as has occurred during these last moments, there might be a change in the heart of the caregiver. He/she decides, just prior to the administration of the lethal dose, to take the patient home to die in the surroundings it knows and with the family it loves. The Veterinarian and clinic staff will appreciate and understand this volte face, and the emotions displayed by the caregiver. Clinic compassion, especially in cases of euthanasia, is the hallmark of any practice.
